The economic, and socio-cultural life of Vietnamese communities in Thailand

Abstract

The Vietnamese community in Thailand was formed quite early and underwent long-term development with some outstanding characteristics. Although influenced by the culture, lifestyle and customs of the indigenous Thai people, they are able to reconcile, preserve and promote the traditional cultural values of the Vietnamese people. Based on relevant documents, and recent findings from research field trips, this article focuses on clarifying the economic, and sociocultural life of the Vietnamese community in Thailand, including cuisine, costumes, housing, and cultural works; on that basis, the research will propose some conclusions emphasizing the characteristics, roles, contribution as well as cultural identities that have been created by Vietnamese people at the intersection with the Thai culture. This is a foundation for the Vietnamese community in Thailand to continue to promote its role as a cultural "messenger", a bridge of the Vietnam - Thailand strategic partnership.