The Nordic student group from the Kulturstudier program has spent 10 exciting weeks filled with many “first-time” experiences in Vietnam, together with their VNUK friends.
A Farewell Party Full of Unforgettable Moments
The journey of learning and exploration during the Autumn semester with Kulturstudier has officially come to an end. Yet, the “fragrant” pages of experience-filled memories will forever be kept in a special corner of their minds.
About the real-life lessons from the Development Studies classroom.
About Vietnam – a country located more than 14,000 kilometers away from where they live.
About a sunny and windy coastal city, home to friendly locals and lovely international friends.

Image 1. Farewell Party for the Kulturstudier Students – Autumn Semester 2024
The final class, which also served as the farewell party for the group, took place in a joyful and heartwarming atmosphere. Many fun games were organized, and under the charming guidance of an MC from VNUK, the international students surely had an unforgettable experience to wrap up their memorable 10-week journey.
Those First Days in Vietnam
The Kulturstudier student group returned to VNUK for the Autumn semester of 2024, featuring more than 80 international students, 4 Ambassadors, and 1 student who received a Kulturstudier scholarship.

Image 2. Welcoming 80 International Students to Vietnam
The welcome event for the international students took place in a warm and cheerful atmosphere, marking an emotional start to their 10-week journey of studying and exploring the beautiful Central region of Vietnam.
The students also participated in an engaging class led by THM lecturers titled “Vietnamese Culture – Văn hóa Việt Nam”, featuring unique lessons designed to introduce them to Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage. They had the chance to explore traditional clothing and cuisine, as well as practice Vietnamese pronunciation—aiming to speak just like the locals.

Image 3. Experience in the “Vietnamese Culture – Văn hóa Việt Nam” Class
Visit to the Paper and Printing Factories – Hòa Cầm Industrial Park
As part of the Development Studies program, the Kulturstudier student group had a valuable field trip to factories within Hòa Cầm Industrial Park to explore the region’s key manufacturing industries. Notably, the students also had hands-on experience by participating in basic production processes during the visit.

Image 4. Experience at the Paper Factory – Hòa Cầm Industrial Park
Immersing in Local Culture at the Cơ Tu Village
The Nordic student group had the opportunity to “slow down” and live alongside the local people in Đông Giang, Quảng Nam, gaining insight into the lives, culture, and traditions of the Cơ Tu ethnic community. Experiencing the lifestyle of people on the other side of the globe—over 14,000 kilometers away—has surely become an unforgettable memory in the journey of these Norwegian friends.

Image 5. Immersed in the dance around the fire with the Cơ Tu ethnic community
A journey back in time with a visit to Đà Nẵng Museum
The next stop for the Kulturstudier student group was the Đà Nẵng Museum — regarded as a living diary chronicling the city’s formation and development. Guided passionately by knowledgeable docents and interpreters, the students gained deep insights into traditional craft villages and the vibrant revival journey of this beautiful and livable city.
VNUK looks forward to welcoming more Kulturstudier students in the future. Each semester brings fresh, unique experiences—not only for the international students but also for the faculty and VNUK community.
Thank you for an amazing journey. Farewell and see you again!