The landmark event features a bilateral MoU signing, international workshops, and a showcase of fine art to deepen cultural bonds between the two nations.
On 18 August 2026, Khon Kaen University officially opened the “Art Exhibition Celebrating 50 Years of Viet Nam-Thailand Diplomatic Relations,” marking the golden jubilee of ties between the Kingdom of Thailand and the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam. Assoc. Prof. Charnchai Panthongviriyakul, MD, President of Khon Kaen University, presided over the opening ceremony, alongside Mr Dinh Hoang Linh, Consul-General of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam in Khon Kaen, and Mr Yuttaporn Pirunsarn, Deputy Governor of Khon Kaen Province. University executives, distinguished guests, and artists from both nations attended the event at the Art Gallery, Art and Cultural Centre, Khon Kaen University.
Proceedings commenced with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Khon Kaen University and the Vietnam Fine Arts and Cultural Diplomacy Mobilization Committee. The agreement focuses on fostering artistic and cultural exchanges, organising joint annual art exhibitions hosted alternately in Thailand and Viet Nam, supporting creative workshops, and establishing university-level art competitions to enhance international student development and cross-border collaboration. A ribbon-cutting ceremony formally inaugurated the exhibition, followed by a symbolic exchange of commemorative paintings between representatives of both countries.
Assoc. Prof. Panthongviriyakul stated that over the past five decades, Thailand and Viet Nam have cultivated a strong and enduring friendship across diplomatic, economic, educational, and cultural spheres. He emphasised that this bond reflects a sustained commitment expressed not only through government ties but also through direct collaboration between institutions and peoples. The President added that the exhibition serves as a physical representation of that shared spirit—acting as an international meeting point where art functions as a universal language to connect ideas, culture, and communities, whilst opening fresh perspectives to deepen bilateral relations.
Ms Dao Huong, Head of the Vietnam Fine Arts and Cultural Diplomacy Mobilization Committee, remarked that culture and art serve as the vital spirit maintaining dynamic relations between the two nations. She noted that art possesses a unique, universal capacity to transcend linguistic, geographical, and political boundaries, addressing human sentiment directly. Ms Huong expressed confidence that the creative exchange on display would inspire a bright and lasting friendship between Viet Nam and Thailand in the years ahead.
Mr Dinh Hoang Linh, Consul-General of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam in Khon Kaen, noted that the 50th anniversary represents a historic milestone built upon mutual goodwill and sincere, continuous efforts by both populations. He highlighted that by gathering 50 works from Vietnamese artists and 50 works from Thai artists, the exhibition visually captures the 50-year journey of diplomacy while conveying a deep message of partnership that brings the image and people of both nations closer together.
Mr Thapthai Thaworn, Manager of the KKU Art Gallery, extended an invitation to the public, detailing that the display showcases a total of 140 pieces—comprising 50 works from Viet Nam, 50 from Thailand, and an additional 40 works (20 from each nation) created during joint workshop activities. He highlighted the rare palette-knife painting technique characteristic of Vietnamese fine art, noting its appeal to visitors interested in nature and architectural themes. The exhibition runs from 15 to 31 August 2026 at the Art Gallery, Faculty of Fine and Applied Arts, Khon Kaen University. https://www.facebook.com/wwitth
