During your Vietnam travel, whether you explore the bustling cities of the south or the misty hills of the north, the iconic red and yellow of the Vietnam flag is bound to catch your eye. Despite its simple design, this beloved emblem has come to represent the spirit of the Vietnamese people for generations. In this article, let’s discover the stories and symbolism behind the colors and shapes of this Vietnam official flag.
1. What does the Vietnam flag look like?
The Vietnam flag features a solid red background with a large, five-pointed yellow star in the center. The flag’s aspect ratio is 2:3, meaning it is twice as long as it is wide. Owing to its rich history and significance in relation to the nation’s sovereignty, the Vietnam flag has become a symbol of national pride for the Vietnamese people.
2. Things to know about the history of the Vietnam flag
The history of the Vietnam flag can be traced back to the 20th century when the country was fighting foreign invaders. Its first appearance was on November 23, 1940, in South Vietnam, then a French colony, as a symbol of resistance against colonial power.
In 1941, the Vietnam flag was displayed at a conference where Ho Chi Minh established Viet Minh, a national independence coalition. On August 17, 1945, during a meeting held in Tan Trao Village, Viet Minh declared it to be the national flag of Vietnam.
Following Japan’s surrender on September 2, 1945, Vietnam declared independence in Hanoi’s Ba Dinh Square, and the flag became the official symbol of North Vietnam. However, when French troops returned to South Vietnam in October, colonial laws were reinstated.
It was not until 1976, after South Vietnam gained independence and the country was reunified, that the Vietnam flag became the official flag of the entire nation. Since then, the red flag with the yellow star has flown proudly across the country as a symbol of the Vietnamese people’s national pride and sovereignty.
3. What do the colors of the Vietnam flag mean?
The Vietnam flag’s design is symbolic and often raises questions about its meaning, such as, “Why is the Vietnam flag red with a yellow star?” or “What does the Vietnam flag represent?”
The vibrant red color stands for the unwavering determination and sacrifice of the Vietnamese people who fought for the country’s independence. It represents the blood that was shed for the sake of freedom and sovereignty.
The bright yellow color of the star reflects the skin color of the Vietnamese people, regardless of their social class. The five points of the central star symbolize the five main classes that make up the country’s political front: businessmen, farmers, workers, intellectuals, and the military.
During significant national occasions such as Tet Holiday, Reunification Day, and National Day, as well as other cultural events, it is common to see the Vietnam flag proudly displayed outside homes and along streets. The Vietnam flag is also a popular design element on various souvenirs like T-shirts, mugs, and keychains, reflecting the nation’s pride and patriotism.
4. Where to see the Vietnam flag raising and lowering ceremony?
If you want to experience something truly special during your Vietnam trip, make sure to witness the daily raising and lowering of the Vietnam flag. The most meaningful place to see this ceremony is at Ba Dinh Square, located in front of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum in Hanoi. Regardless of the weather, the ritual takes place every day at 6 am and 9 pm.
As the time comes, you will see a group of 34 soldiers from the Vietnam Armed Unit for National Liberation, dressed in white uniforms, solemnly marching to the towering flagpole. They will hoist and lower the bright red flag with the yellow star with precise military movements, accompanied by the national anthem. The sight will fill you with a sense of pride, honor, and respect for the Vietnamese people.
After the ceremony, Ba Dinh Square becomes a popular gathering place for locals, including families taking a stroll, the elderly exercising, and friends hanging out. Joining the ceremony is a great way to immerse yourself in Vietnam’s rich culture and history; therefore, don’t miss out on this unforgettable experience.
As you travel throughout Vietnam, you will notice the national flag proudly displayed in every corner of the country, from Ho Chi Minh City to Nha Trang, Hoi An, Da Nang, Phu Quoc, and beyond. On your way to exploring this beautiful country, be sure to fill your trip with a lot of joy with the following attractions:
- Vinpearl Aquarium and VinKE: An entertainment paradise where you can immerse yourself in the ocean world and enjoy hundreds of fascinating games
- VinWonders Nam Hoi An: A complex where visitors can experience the culture, architecture, and traditions of Vietnam and the world
- VinWonders Nha Trang: A destination filled with groundbreaking records that offer loads of fun and unforgettable memories
- VinWonders Phu Quoc: The largest theme park in Vietnam, complete with a wide range of exciting games and magnificent shows
>>> Book tickets of VinWonders Phu Quoc, Nha Trang, Nam Hoi An, Vinpearl Aquarium and VinKE to create unforgettable memories on your trip to Vietnam!
The Vietnam flag is more than just a symbol of the country, it is a source of pride and inspiration for the Vietnamese people. It represents the country’s fight for independence, freedom, and unity. Don’t forget to bring home the flag as a souvenir to remember your trip to Vietnam and let it inspire you with its message of resilience and determination in your own life.
>>> Book tickets of VinWonders Phu Quoc, Nha Trang, Nam Hoi An, Vinpearl Aquarium and VinKE to fill your trip with loads of fun!