{"id":5125,"date":"2020-12-03T14:15:19","date_gmt":"2020-12-03T06:15:19","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/thesmartlocal.com\/vietnam\/?p=5125"},"modified":"2022-10-05T22:07:59","modified_gmt":"2022-10-05T14:07:59","slug":"vietnamese-actors","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/thesmartlocal.com\/vietnam\/vietnamese-actors\/","title":{"rendered":"20 Iconic Vietnamese Actors Every Local Movie Buff Should Know About"},"content":{"rendered":"

Famous Vietnamese actors<\/strong><\/h2>\n
\n

In the previous century, hardly any millennials grew up without binging on 1980s dramas starring such as <\/span>V\u00e1n B\u00e0i L\u1eadt Ng\u1eeda (Cards On The Table) <\/span><\/em>or the famous 1957 film<\/span> Ng\u01b0\u1eddi \u0110\u1eb9p B\u00ecnh D\u01b0\u01a1ng (The Beauty Of Binh Duong)<\/span><\/em> that has echoed through the ages. These classics couldn’t have been possible without the Vietnamese actors we remember and love.<\/span><\/p>\n

If these blockbuster names struck a chord with you, then you are no stranger to these<\/span> 20 Vietnamese actors <\/b>who were movers and shakers of Vietnam\u2019s film industry in <\/span>the 20th century<\/span><\/a>.<\/p>\n


\n<\/span><\/p>\n

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1. Thanh Nga – the queen of Vietnam\u2019s modern folk opera<\/strong><\/h3>\n
\n

\"Thanh
\nImage adapted from: Pinterest<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Singing and dancing in films, TV dramas, and performances, there seemed to be nothing that Thanh Nga (1942-1978) <\/b>couldn\u2019t do on stage and screen.<\/p>\n

\"Thanh
\nImage adapted from: beautyosunset<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Thanh Nga was brought up in a family of artists<\/a>, where her mother was the producer of the most famous modern folk opera (C\u1ea3i L\u01b0\u01a1ng<\/em>) troupe in the 20th century and her siblings were also artists.<\/p>\n

\"Thanh
\nImage credit: Nhac Xua<\/a>\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n

Naturally gifted with<\/span> a bright and crisp voice coupled with professional training, Thanh Nga soon became a highly sought-after modern folk opera artist in her early 20s and her name often guaranteed arena sell-outs.<\/span><\/p>\n

Throughout her career that was over a decade long, she had performed over a hundred opera plays, the most notable of which include <\/span>B\u00ean C\u1ea7u D\u1ec7t L\u1ee5a (<\/span>Weaving Silk By The Bridge<\/span>)<\/span><\/em>, a story about piety and <\/span>Ti\u1ebfng Tr\u1ed1ng M\u00ea Linh (<\/span>The Drum Sound Of <\/span>Me Linh<\/span>)<\/span><\/em>, which reenacted the Tr\u01b0ng<\/em> sisters\u2019 historical story and promoted patriotism.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Aside from performing on the stage, she was also involved in <\/span>film acting, which was a thriving form of art in then-South Vietnam in the 1960s. Her major film works include <\/span>Loan M\u1eaft Nhung (Loan The Velvet Eye) <\/span><\/em>in 1970, which is about an innocent girl\u2019s ill fate, and <\/span>Lan v\u00e0 \u0110i\u1ec7p<\/em> <\/span>(1971), a Vietnamese version of <\/span>Romeo & Juliet<\/span><\/i>.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Thanh
\nImage credit: An Ninh Thu Do<\/a>\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n

At the age of 36, Thanh Nga and her husband were killed at the front of their home in Saigon\u2019s District 1 while trying to protect their son, who fortunately survived and is still alive today, from armed kidnappers. Many years have come and gone, but Thanh Nga\u2019s beauty and talent have still echoed down the ages.<\/p>\n

Her final resting place – together with that of many talented Vietnamese actors’ and artists’ – can be visited at The Artists’ Pagoda (Ch\u00f9a Ngh\u1ec7 S\u0129)<\/em> in Saigon today.<\/p>\n

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2. Th\u1ea9m Th\u00fay H\u1eb1ng – Vietnam\u2019s \u201cGrace Kelly\u201d<\/strong><\/h3>\n
\n

\"tham
\nImage credit: Pinterest<\/a>\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n

One can\u2019t list the most influential Vietnamese actors of all time without bringing up Th\u1ea9m Th\u00fay H\u1eb1ng (1940-)<\/b>.<\/p>\n

\"tham
\nImage adapted from: MrVietphim<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

After winning a Saigon-wide beauty pageant organized by M\u1ef9 V\u00e2n Films, the H\u1ea3i Ph\u00f2ng-born actress joined the film business and soon rose to prominence during Saigon\u2019s golden years of cinema.<\/p>\n

With her staggering beauty, bold sense of fashion, and charming acting style reminiscent of her actress counterpart Grace Kelly, she was the most influential Vietnamese actress in the late 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s besides Thanh Nga.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"tham
\nImage credit: Minh Tinh M\u00e0n B\u1ea1c – Th\u1ea9m Th\u00fay H\u1eb1ng<\/a>\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n

Her face was all over local magazines and calendars, while the fashion items she wore in every movie were quickly snatched up by local fashion mavens in stores after movie screenings.<\/p>\n

\"tham
\nImage credit: Minh Tinh M\u00e0n B\u1ea1c – Th\u1ea9m Th\u00fay H\u1eb1ng<\/a>\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n

While Thanh Nga portrayed a more traditional image by sticking with ao dai<\/em> and country-style outfits, like many other Vietnamese actors did at the time, the fashion-forward Th\u1ea9m Th\u00fay H\u1eb1ng was not afraid to put on Western-style makeup as well as more revealing dresses that you only see in Hollywood movies.\u00a0<\/b><\/p>\n

It\u2019s hard to list her most successful works because all of the movies that featured her were the biggest box office hits in the 20th century. However, if you want to get to know more about this talented actress, check out Ng\u01b0\u1eddi \u0110\u1eb9p B\u00ecnh D\u01b0\u01a1ng<\/em> (<\/em><\/span>The Beauty of Binh Duong)<\/span><\/em>, a 1958 movie about the eventful life of a beautiful girl from B\u00ecnh D\u01b0\u01a1ng Province.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

This movie marked Th\u1ea9m Th\u00fay H\u1eb1ng\u2019s debut in the film industry, and was such a hit that it propelled her name to fame, and “The Beauty of Binh Duong”<\/em> soon became her nickname.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

3. Nguy\u1ec5n Ch\u00e1nh T\u00edn – a household name in the 1980s<\/strong><\/h3>\n
\n

\"Chanh
\nImage adapted from: Phim Hay \u0110i\u1ec7n \u1ea2nh<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Starting out as a singer, Ch\u00e1nh T\u00edn (1952-2020)<\/b> became a nationwide phenomenon after appearing in V\u00e1n B\u00e0i L\u1eadt Ng\u1eeda (Cards On The Table<\/em>)<\/em>, a black-and-white action drama series based on the real-life story of Agent Ph\u1ea1m Ng\u1ecdc Th\u1ea3o.<\/p>\n

\"Chanh
\nNguy\u1ec5n Ch\u00e1nh T\u00edn playing Agent Robert Nguy\u1ec5n Th\u00e0nh Lu\u00e2n in V\u00e1n B\u00e0i L\u1eadt Ng\u1eeda<\/em>
\nImage credit: <\/span>Cong Suong<\/span><\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Endowed with a handsome appearance, overwhelming on-screen charisma, and unrivalled acting skills, the Saigon-born actor has been remembered by Vietnamese audiences as Agent Robert Nguy\u1ec5n Th\u00e0nh Lu\u00e2n, his iconic role in the movie.<\/p>\n

\"Chanh
\nImage credit: Nguoi Noi Tieng<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

During the period of 1982 to1987 when the series was filmed, Ch\u00e1nh T\u00edn remained a household name and the most sought-after actor in the entire country.<\/p>\n

Even until today, most audiences and many critics believe that Ch\u00e1nh T\u00edn is one of the most charismatic Vietnamese actors to date and his performance in the series was so good that there should not be any remake.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Johnny
\nImage credit: Nguoi Noi Tieng<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

He happens to be the biological uncle of famous actor Johnny Tr\u00ed Nguy\u1ec5n and film director Charlie Nguy\u1ec5n.<\/p>\n

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4. Ki\u1ec1u Chinh – Vietnam\u2019s first actress to feature in a Hollywood movie<\/strong><\/h3>\n
\n

\"Kieu
\nImage credit: 24H<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Born in Hanoi and brought up in Saigon, Ki\u1ec1u Chinh (1937-) <\/b>began her acting career with a role in H\u1ed3i Chu\u00f4ng Thi\u00ean M\u1ee5 (The Bells of Thien Mu Temple) <\/em>in<\/i> 1957 and soon rose to fame with her unique beauty with her high cheekbones and defined nose.<\/p>\n

Her well-delivered performance in <\/span>Ng\u01b0\u1eddi T\u00ecnh Kh\u00f4ng Ch\u00e2n Dung (A Shapeless Lover)<\/span><\/em>, a 1971 movie telling the story of a girl searching for her lover who was a soldier fighting on the battle front, won immense applause from local audiences and critics.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Kieu
\nImage adapted from: MrVietphim<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

She was also Vietnam\u2019s first actress to star in US-produced movies such as <\/i>A Yank in Vietnam<\/em> (1965) and Operation C.I.A<\/em> (1965).<\/p>\n

While filming in Singapore in April 1975, Ki\u1ec1u Chinh received news of the Fall of Saigon and immediately departed to seek political refuge in the US. After resettling in the US, she joined numerous North American movies and TV dramas such as Welcome Home<\/em> (1989), The Joy Luck Club<\/em> (1993), and City of Angels<\/em> (1998).<\/p>\n

\"Kieu
\nImage adapted from: <\/span>Kieu Chinh Official Channel<\/span><\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Today, she is teaching at a talent network in New York and is one of the most prominent figures in the Vietnamese community in the US.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Kieu
\nKi\u1ec1u Chinh is still a picture of health at the age of 84<\/em>
\nImage credit: <\/span>Ki\u1ec1u Chinh<\/span><\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

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5. Kim C\u01b0\u01a1ng – Vietnam\u2019s most prolific playwright<\/strong><\/h3>\n
\n

\"Ky
\nImage credit: Pinterest<\/a>\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n

While the acting skills and modern folk opera singing talent of Saigon-based <\/span>Kim C\u01b0\u01a1ng (1937- )<\/b> are well-known among local audiences, it\u2019s little known that she also has a talent for writing stage plays.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Ky
\nKim C\u01b0\u01a1ng playing a nun in the TV series Hai M\u00f9a Gi\u00e1ng Sinh, or Two Christmas Seasons<\/em>
\nImage credit: <\/span>Ng\u01b0\u1eddi Ph\u1ee5 N\u1eef C\u1ee7a N\u0103m<\/span><\/a>\u00a0<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

In fact, she was awarded the title of Vietnam\u2019s Most Prolific Playwright, aside from numerous acting awards she has received over the years.<\/p>\n

One of the most famous screenplays written by Kim C\u01b0\u01a1ng are <\/span>L\u00e1 S\u1ea7u Ri\u00eang<\/span><\/a> (The Durian Leaf)<\/span><\/em>, <\/span><\/i>which was about the ill-fated love and <\/span>B\u00f4ng H\u1ed3ng C\u00e0i \u00c1o <\/span><\/a>(The Rose Brooch)<\/span><\/em>, a touching story about the love of a mother.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Ky
\nImage adapted from: MrVietphim<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

A movie icon in the 1960s and 1970s, Kim C\u01b0\u01a1ng has also starred in about 30 movies which were all big hits in those days.<\/p>\n

Some of her major works include Chi\u1ebfc B\u00f3ng B\u00ean \u0110\u01b0\u1eddng (The Roadside Shadow)<\/em> in 1973, in which she played a countryside lover to a successful married man, 1962 thriller film M\u01b0a R\u1eebng (Rain In The Woods)<\/em> about a family’s disturbing secrets and a sad love story taking place in a plantation,<\/em> and 1973 comedy film T\u1ee9 Qu\u00e1i S\u00e0i G\u00f2n (Saigon\u2019s Fantastic Four<\/em>)<\/em>, where she starred alongside Th\u1ea9m Th\u00fay H\u1eb1ng.<\/p>\n

\"Ky
\nImage credit: FC K\u1ef3 N\u1eef Kim C\u01b0\u01a1ng<\/a>\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n

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6. Th\u00e0nh \u0110\u01b0\u1ee3c – a silver screen heartthrob in the 60s and 70s<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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\"thanh
\nImage adapted from: Ban Sac Phuong Nam<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Dubbed \u201cThe Throneless King\u201d<\/em> of the former South Vietnam\u2019s performing arts industry in the 60s, Th\u00e0nh \u0110\u01b0\u1ee3c (1938- )<\/b> was one of the most acclaimed Vietnamese actors of his time until he emigrated to the US after the Vietnam War.<\/p>\n

After finishing primary school, the S\u00f3c Tr\u0103ng-born actor followed his uncle, the producer of the Thanh C\u1ea7n Modern Folk Opera troupe, to Saigon to learn about this form of arts.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"thanh
\nImage adapted from: Thuy Nga<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

He made his stage debut at the age of 20 and soon soared to fame after his distinguished role in the opera play Khi hoa anh \u0111\u00e0o n\u1edf (When The Cherry Blossoms Bloom)<\/em> or <\/i>Tuy\u1ec7t T\u00ecnh Ca <\/a>(The Song of Eternal Farewell).\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n

\"thanh
\nImage adapted from: Nguoi Lao Dong<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Endowed with a cinematic appearance and acting talents, Th\u00e0nh \u0110\u01b0\u1ee3c easily achieved tremendous success as he made a crossover from the modern folk opera stage to the silver screen.<\/p>\n

The 1960s were the most flourishing period of both these art forms, and Th\u00e0nh \u0110\u01b0\u1ee3c reigned supreme in both arenas.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Handsome, suave, and charismatic, he made many Saigon girls those days fall head over heels with his onscreen appearance.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"thanh
\nImage adapted from: <\/span>beautyosunset<\/span><\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

If you have never seen Th\u00e0nh \u0110\u01b0\u1ee3c clad in a soldier\u2019s uniform in his striking performance in Chi\u1ebfc B\u00f3ng B\u00ean \u0110\u01b0\u1eddng (The Roadside Shadow)<\/em> alongside actresses lauded for their beauty such as Ki\u1ec1u Chinh and Kim C\u01b0\u01a1ng, please do.<\/p>\n

\"thanh
\nTh\u00e0nh \u0110\u01b0\u1ee3c (left) and Thanh Nga (right) in a play<\/span>
\n<\/span>Image credit: <\/span>VnExpress<\/a><\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

Rumor has it that he was deeply in love with Thanh Nga back in the day, but his love was not reciprocated. <\/span><\/p>\n

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7. L\u00ea C\u00f4ng Tu\u1ea5n Anh – a key figure in the post-war romance films<\/strong><\/h3>\n
\n

\"Le
\nImage credit: Nguoi Noi Tieng<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

During the 1990s, L\u00ea C\u00f4ng Tu\u1ea5n Anh (1967-1996) <\/b>was an exponentially popular heartthrob and the pioneer of Vietnam\u2019s modern film era long after the end of the Vietnam War in 1975.<\/p>\n

\"Le
\nImage adapted from: <\/span>Phim Hay \u0110i\u1ec7n \u1ea2nh<\/span><\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Throughout his brief but illustrious career, L\u00ea C\u00f4ng Tu\u1ea5n Anh played a variety of parts but was best known for his romance film roles.<\/p>\n

Some include the character Quang \u0110\u00f4ng Ki S\u1ed1t<\/b> in the famous 1990 blockbuster V\u1ecb \u0110\u1eafng T\u00ecnh Y\u00eau (The Bitterness Of Love<\/em>)<\/em>, a romantic movie about the love between a poor medical student and his rich girlfriend which gained overwhelming praise from nationwide audiences.<\/p>\n

\"Le
\nImage credit: Nguoi Noi Tieng<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Unquestionably handsome, with a tinge of sadness in his eyes, L\u00ea C\u00f4ng Tu\u1ea5n Anh was once the legend of Vietnamese post-war cinema. During his golden days, he won numerous accolades for his achievements in the film business, such as the Golden Lotus Award Best Movie<\/em> (1993) and the Golden Apricot Award For The Most Favorite Actor<\/em> in 1994, 1995, and 1996.<\/p>\n

Unfortunately, while at the peak of his career, L\u00ea C\u00f4ng Tu\u1ea5n Anh passed away at the age of 29 by his own hand.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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8. Vi\u1ec7t Trinh – the beauty icon of the 1990s<\/strong><\/h3>\n
\n

\"Viet
\nImage credit: Bao Phap Luat<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

There was hardly any teenage boy growing up in the 1990s who didn\u2019t have a calendar or poster with the face of the stunning <\/span>Vi\u1ec7t Trinh (1972- )<\/b> on it.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Viet
\nImage adapted from: <\/span>HPLUS Films<\/span><\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Aside from her<\/span> soulful eyes, pointed nose,<\/b> and delicate <\/span>bow-shaped lips<\/b> that made her a beauty icon of her time, Vi\u1ec7t Trinh seemed to have a knack for films that were destined to be great hits.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Viet
\nImage credit: VTC<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Vi\u1ec7t Trinh started her career at the age of 16 as a calendar model while she was still a student at the Saigon Film Academy. Through her doe-eyed, alluring looks, she captivated millions in those days with her spectacular role in <\/span>Ng\u01b0\u1eddi \u0110\u1eb9p T\u00e2y \u0110\u00f4 (The Beauty of Tay \u0110o<\/span><\/em>)<\/em>, a movie about a beautiful and patriotic woman from T\u00e2y \u0110\u00f4, also known as C\u1ea7n Th\u01a1 City.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Viet
\nImage credit: Bao Phap Luat<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

This movie achieved resounding success in those days and became Vi\u1ec7t Trinh\u2019s nickname ever since.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Today, Vi\u1ec7t Trinh is leading a low-key lifestyle in her verdant villa in B\u00ecnh D\u01b0\u01a1ng Province and spends most of her time gardening and travelling with her son.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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9. L\u00fd H\u00f9ng – the owner of the most leading roles in Vietnam<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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\"Ly
\nImage adapted from: Nguoi Noi Tieng<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Starring in over 50 movies, L\u00fd H\u00f9ng<\/b> (1969-)<\/strong> has earned the status of being the Vietnamese actor who\u2019s played the most leading roles.<\/p>\n

The biological son of L\u00fd Hu\u1ef3nh<\/b> (1943-2020)<\/strong>, one of the former South Vietnam\u2019s most famous kung fu<\/em> masters during the Indochinese era who\u2019s known for having challenged Bruce Lee himself to a fight, L\u00fd H\u00f9ng learned shaolin<\/em> kungfu and T\u00e2y S\u01a1n – B\u00ecnh \u0110\u1ecbnh<\/em> martial arts at a young age and also became a martial artist himself.<\/p>\n

Some of L\u00fd H\u00f9ng’s most famous works include Ph\u1ea1m C\u00f4ng – C\u00fac Hoa<\/em> (1989), a fictional film about the love story between Ph\u1ea1m C\u00f4ng (played by L\u00fd H\u00f9ng) and his wife C\u00fac Hoa, and B\u00ean D\u00f2ng S\u00f4ng Tr\u1eb9m (Along The Trem River), <\/em>a painful and intense love story of a countryside couple.<\/p>\n

\"Ly
\nImage adapted from: C\u1ea3i L\u01b0\u01a1ng Vi\u1ec7t Nam<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Aside from his heroic roles in bloodshed genre movies and TV dramas, he was also known for his captivating on-screen romances with actresses such as Y Ph\u1ee5ng and Di\u1ec5m H\u01b0\u01a1ng.<\/p>\n

\"Ly
\nImage credit: Nguoi Noi Tieng<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

In fact, he and Y Ph\u1ee5ng looked so in love on the set and in sync off the screen that they were rumored to be lovers in real life until Y Ph\u1ee5ng emigrated to the US.<\/p>\n

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10. Y Ph\u1ee5ng – the bombshell of the 1990s<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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\"Y
\nImage credit: VietnamNet<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Daughter of Saigon\u2019s \u201cKing of Folk Opera\u201d <\/em>Minh Ph\u1ee5ng<\/a>, Y Ph\u1ee5ng (1979- ) <\/b>joined the show business at the young age of 6 as a supporting performer at her parents\u2019 folk opera shows.<\/p>\n

\"Y
\nY Ph\u1ee5ng and her father<\/em>
\nImage credit: <\/span>Bao Dan Sinh<\/span><\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Possessing a fiery beauty and bold sense of fashion, Y Ph\u1ee5ng gained success as a singer and actress in the 1980s.<\/p>\n

Not someone who shied away from showing skin, Y Ph\u1ee5ng usually wore cleavage-exposing clothes on the stage. While she received a lot of flak for her daring choice of on-stage clothes, her unique appearance earned her a nationwide reputation as the bombshell of Saigon and every movie she featured in became a big hit.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Y
\nSupermodel Kate Moss posing in front of a poster featuring Y Ph\u1ee5ng (with earrings, on the left) during her visit to Saigon in 1996<\/em>
\nImage credit: <\/span>VnExpress<\/span><\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Some of Y Ph\u1ee5ng\u2019s major works include H\u1ea3i \u0110\u01b0\u1eddng Tr\u1eafng, or White Camellia<\/em> (1994), in which she played the lover of robber B\u1ea1ch H\u1ea3i \u0110\u01b0\u1eddng, who was a real-life figure in the 1970s.<\/p>\n

Y Ph\u1ee5ng emigrated to the US in 2005 and became a regular performer for Asia Entertainment, specializing in the bolero music genre. With a velvety voice and gorgeous face, Y Ph\u1ee5ng soon amassed a huge following among overseas Vietnamese communities.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Y
\nImage adapted from: Asia Entertainment Official<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Her performance of <\/span>Vi\u1ebft T\u1eeb KBC<\/span><\/a><\/em>, a song about a girl receiving a letter from her lover who was a soldier, gained overwhelming ovations from the audience and Youtube viewers.<\/span><\/p>\n

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11. Quy\u1ec1n Linh – one of Vietnam\u2019s most charitable actors<\/strong><\/h3>\n
\n

\"Quyen
\nImage credit: Nguoi Noi Tieng<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

It was a poor and rough life that Quy\u1ec1n Linh (1969-)<\/b> had endured through his teenage years until becoming a success on screen made him one of Vietnam\u2019s most generous and approachable actors.<\/p>\n

Having appeared in over 20 TV series, 10 films, and numerous plays, the Saigon-based actor is one of the most prolific and respected Vietnamese actors who debuted in the 1990s.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Quyen
\nImage adapted from: HPLUS Films<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

\u0110\u1ed3ng Ti\u1ec1n X\u01b0\u01a1ng M\u00e1u (The Blood Money)<\/em>, <\/i>a 1999 TV series about how money could alter people\u2019s characters and Ng\u01b0\u1eddi H\u00e0 N\u1ed9i (The Hanoians)<\/em>,<\/i> a 1995 TV series about a group of Hanoi residents struggling to adapt to Vietnam\u2019s new days of open doors after the Vietnam War, are some of Quy\u1ec1n Linh\u2019s most iconic works.<\/p>\n

\"Quyen
\nImage credit: The Gioi Dien Anh<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

In the past decade, he has gradually retired from acting and become a show host for numerous TV shows such as HTV7 show V\u01b0\u1ee3t L\u00ean Ch\u00ednh M\u00ecnh (Rising Above Yourself)<\/em> and VTV3 show V\u00ec B\u1ea1n X\u1ee9ng \u0110\u00e1ng (You Deserve It).<\/em><\/p>\n

\"Quyen
\nImage credit: Dia Diem An Uong<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Hardworking and humble, Quy\u1ec1n Linh is currently among the highest-earning Vietnamese actors and celebrities and also among the most charitable ones. Fans have spotted him driving to the more remote parts of Vietnam or hospitals around the country to donate his own money to poor families.<\/p>\n

Rumor has it that he usually tells the people he donates money to that the donations come from an anonymous donor in Saigon, which is usually himself. He also raises funds every once in a while for greater charitable causes such as the Central Vietnam flooding relief efforts.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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12. Chi B\u1ea3o – captivating presence coupled with real talent<\/strong><\/h3>\n
\n

\"Chi
\nImage credit: Nguoi Lao Dong<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Endowed with facial expressions imbued with cinematic melancholy and a stylish hairdo that resembles Hong Kong\u2019s movie icon Andy Lau, Chi B\u1ea3o<\/b> (1973-)<\/strong> made many swoon in his prime days.<\/p>\n

\"Chi
\nImage adapted from: HPLUS Films<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

In addition to his good looks and charisma, the Saigon-based actor also gained recognition from critics for his ability to embrace complex movie characters with depth and magnetism.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Having appeared in over 30 films, Chi B\u1ea3o and his influence swept the nation in the late 1990s and early 2000s in <\/span>Nh\u1eefng \u0111\u1ee9a con th\u00e0nh ph\u1ed1<\/span><\/i><\/a> (<\/span>The Sons Of The City<\/span><\/i>), a drama about a patriotic movement during the Indochinese era.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Chi
\nImage credit: Chi B\u1ea3o<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

He also delivered an unforgettable performance in the classic 1999 TV drama series<\/span> \u0110\u1ed3ng Ti\u1ec1n X\u01b0\u01a1ng M\u00e1u (The Blood Money)<\/span><\/em>,<\/em> about Saigon residents\u2019 struggle to adapt to Vietnam\u2019s early days of nationwide market reform.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Chi
\nChi B\u1ea3o at the age of 47<\/span>
\n<\/span>Image credit: <\/span>Chi B\u1ea3o<\/span><\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

\n

13. V\u0103n Hi\u1ec7p – a witty actor remembered by Northern Vietnamese audiences<\/strong><\/h3>\n
\n

\"Van
\nImage credit: 24h<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Establishing himself as an film and play actor from the 1960s till the early 2000s, V\u0103n Hi\u1ec7p<\/b> (1942-2013)<\/strong> soon became a well-loved icon on Hanoi\u2019s theatrical stages and films.<\/p>\n

While V\u0103n Hi\u1ec7p had never landed any leading roles in his larger-than-life career, compared to the other Vietnamese actors on this list, he was a recognizable face among Northern Vietnamese households through the countless TV dramas he featured in.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Van
\nImage credit: Dan Tri<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Possessing a cheerful face and great sense of humor, V\u0103n Hi\u1ec7p dominated the on-screen comedy genre with memorable roles in the G\u1eb7p Nhau Cu\u1ed1i Tu\u1ea7n (Weekly Gatherings<\/em>)<\/em> TV series featuring him as the witty Tr\u01b0\u1edfng Th\u00f4n<\/em> V\u0103n Hi\u1ec7p (Village Head V\u0103n Hi\u1ec7p).<\/p>\n

\"Van
\nImage adapted from: Comedy Everywhere<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

While he\u2019s long gone, V\u0103n Hi\u1ec7p is still remembered by many audiences as a dedicated and humble actor who always brought joy and laughter to their households.<\/p>\n

\"Van
\nImage credit: Dan Tri<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

\n

14. L\u00ea Khanh – the gold standard for Hanoian classic beauty\u00a0<\/strong><\/h3>\n
\n

\"Le
\nImage credit: <\/span>kimapache<\/span><\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Endowed with delicate facial features, a gentle voice, and effortless sophistication fitting of a true blue Hanoian woman, L\u00ea Khanh (1963-)<\/b> embodies the finest qualities of a capital city dweller.<\/p>\n

\"Le
\nImage credit: VnExpress<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

This is also one of the reasons why she was entrusted with the leading role of Th\u1ea3o, a beautiful woman with a sad love life in the famous 1995 TV drama series <\/span>Ng\u01b0\u1eddi H\u00e0 N\u1ed9i<\/span><\/em> (The Hanoians)<\/em>, which shed a light on the struggling lives of a group of Hanoi residents after the Vietnam War.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

She\u2019s also known to international movie fans through her role as Khanh, a sophisticated and charming housewife in <\/span>M\u00f9a H\u00e8 Chi\u1ec1u Th\u1eb3ng \u0110\u1ee9ng<\/span> (<\/span>The Vertical Ray of the Sun)<\/span><\/em>, a 2000 feature film about 3 sisters living in Hanoi\u2019s Old Quarter and their complicated relationships with their husbands and lovers, with a focus on the traditional ways of life of Hanoians.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Le
\nImage credit: Nguoi Noi Tieng<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

The movie was directed by acclaimed Vietnamese-French director Tr\u1ea7n Anh H\u00f9ng<\/b> whose films have attained international fame. They include The Scent of Green Papaya<\/em> which won 2 prizes at the Cannes Film Festival, and Cyclo<\/em> (1995), which featured movie star Tony Leung Chiu Wai and won the Golden Lion<\/em> prize at the Venice International Film Festival.<\/p>\n

Throughout her career that spans over 40 years, L\u00ea Khanh has starred alongside many fellow Vietnamese actors in over 20 movies and TV drama series, as well as numerous plays.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

15. M\u1ea1nh C\u01b0\u1eddng – the gentleman from Hanoi<\/strong><\/h3>\n
\n

\"Manh
\nImage adapted from: kimapache<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

From starring in romances to psychological thrillers, M\u1ea1nh C\u01b0\u1eddng<\/b> has an ample record of playing \u201clady-killer<\/em>\u201d characters in which he is loved by all types of women.<\/p>\n

Always portrayed as a rich and cultured Hanoi man in his films, M\u1ea1nh C\u01b0\u1eddng has been fondly dubbed \u201cthe gentleman<\/em>\u201d during his remarkable career that has expanded over 2 decades.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Manh
\nImage adapted from: Tesla Gifts<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

M\u1ea1nh C\u01b0\u1eddng has long been one of Hanoi\u2019s most applauded TV actors, especially since he delivered a spectacular performance in the iconic series<\/span> Ng\u01b0\u1eddi H\u00e0 N\u1ed9i (The Hanoians<\/span><\/em>)<\/em>, in which he played a rich man in love with a married woman.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Manh
\nImage credit: <\/span>Tien Phong<\/span><\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

He also starred alongside L\u00ea Khanh in <\/span>M\u00f9a H\u00e8 Chi\u1ec1u Th\u1eb3ng \u0110\u1ee9ng<\/span> (<\/span>The Vertical Ray of the Sun)<\/span><\/em>, an acclaimed feature film directed by Tr\u1ea7n Anh H\u00f9ng.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

16. Trung Hi\u1ebfu – an enduring iconic figure in TV dramas<\/strong><\/h3>\n
\n

\"Trung
\nImage credit: Kich Ha Noi<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

When it comes to Trung Hi\u1ebfu <\/b>(1973-)<\/strong>, his handsome appearance and superb martial arts skills are not what viewers know of him – his acting skills are the most memorable of all.<\/p>\n

\"Trung
\nImage adapted from: Thanh Ba Vlog<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Since beginning his acting career in 1996, Trung Hi\u1ebfu has unfailingly demonstrated his acting talents and knocked down stereotypes about who gets to be on the silver screen.<\/p>\n

\"Trung
\nImage credit: Kich Ha Noi<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Possessing dynamic, unfailingly on-point expressions in both comedy films and melodramas, Trung Hi\u1ebfu can get so soaked in his roles that viewers can hardly differentiate between his real self and the characters he\u2019s playing.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Trung
\nImage credit: Kich Ha Noi<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

In \u0110\u1ed3ng Qu\u00ea X\u00e0o X\u1ea1c (The Rustling Countryside)<\/em>, one of Trung Hi\u1ebfu \u2019s most famous works, he was so successful in portraying a self-absorbed and possessive soldier that many viewers openly expressed their hatred for him when seeing him on the streets.<\/p>\n

Throughout his impressive career that has spanned over 20 years, Trung Hi\u1ebfu has won numerous awards such as the Best Leading Actor In TV Dramas<\/em> award in the 2009 Vietnam Film Festival and the Best Leading Play Actor<\/em> award for the play<\/span> T\u00ecnh S\u1eed Ng\u00e0n N\u0103m<\/span> (<\/span>A Thousand Years Of Love<\/span><\/em>)<\/em> in 2010.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

17. Xu\u00e2n B\u1eafc – the most celebrated comedy star in the North<\/strong><\/h3>\n
\n

\"Xuan
\nImage adapted from: Nguy\u1ec5n Xu\u00e2n B\u1eafc\u00a0<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

It\u2019s impossible to say whether Xu\u00e2n B\u1eafc (1976-)<\/b> is better as a comedian or actor, because he has achieved resounding success on both comedy stages and in TV drama series.<\/p>\n

\"Xuan
\nImage adapted from: Phim Hay Vi\u1ec7t Nam<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Over the span of his 20-year career, Xu\u00e2n B\u1eafc has starred in over 20 TV dramas and countless TV shows.<\/p>\n

After graduating from Hanoi Academy of Theatre and Cinema in 1998, Xu\u00e2n B\u1eafc joined Hanoi Theatre and starred in numerous plays. He also started his career in acting through supporting roles in some iconic Hanoi-produced films such as 12A v\u00e0 4H<\/em>, a 1995 TV series about Hanoi high school students and Chuy\u1ec7n Nh\u00e0 M\u1ed9c<\/a><\/em>,<\/em> a 1998 movie about a farmer\u2019s journey to help his daughter get into college.<\/p>\n

\"Xuan
\nImage adapted from: Phim Hay \u0110i\u1ec7n \u1ea2nh<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

However, Xu\u00e2n B\u1eafc only started to soar to fame after landing a starring role in the famous 2000 TV drama S\u00f3ng \u1ede \u0110\u00e1y S\u00f4ng (Waves At The Bottom Of A River)<\/em>, which tells the eventful life story of a son born out of wedlock who was mistreated by his rich father.<\/p>\n

This TV drama was extremely famous in the Northern parts of Vietnam at the time of airing, and became a stepping stone for Xu\u00e2n B\u1eafc to become one of the most acclaimed actors in Vietnam at the turn of the 21st century.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Xuan
\n(From left to right) C\u00f4ng L\u00fd, Qu\u1ed1c Kh\u00e1nh, and Xu\u00e2n B\u1eafc<\/em>
\n<\/span>Image credit: <\/span>Nguoi Lao Dong<\/span><\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Endowed with a great sense of humor and outstanding acting skills, Xu\u00e2n B\u1eafc is also an illustrious comedian. He\u2019s a fixture of the G\u1eb7p Nhau Cu\u1ed1i N\u0103m (Year-End Gathering Show)<\/em>, an annual Vietnamese comedy show starring many Vietnamese actors and aired on all VTV channels on New Year\u2019s Eve, in which he is known as Nam T\u00e0o<\/b>, a counselor to the Heavenly King.<\/p>\n

The show was aired from 2003 to 2009, enjoying tremendous popularity in Vietnam and long considered the must-watch TV show in every household on that day.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

18. H\u1ed3ng \u00c1nh – talented actress and movie director<\/strong><\/h3>\n
\n

\"Hong
\nImage credit: Nguoi Noi Tieng<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Born in 1977 in Tr\u00e0 Vinh,<\/span> H\u1ed3ng \u00c1nh (1977-)<\/b> has attained a reputation for her professionalism and versatility in her acting roles.\u00a0<\/span>
\n<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Hong
\nImage adapted from: HPLUS Films<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

H\u1ed3ng \u00c1nh \u2019s ability to transform into any character she plays is remarkable, and shown in TV drama T\u00f3c Ng\u1eafn (Short Hair)<\/em>, a 1999 TV series about friendship among a group of Saigon students in which she played the role of a stubborn city girl.<\/p>\n

Her 2007 movie <\/span>Tr\u0103ng N\u01a1i \u0110\u00e1y Gi\u1ebfng (The Moon in The Well)<\/span><\/em>, in which she played a submissive wife willing to sacrifice her happiness for her selfish husband, earned her the title of Best Leading Actress<\/em> in the 2008 Dubai Film Festival.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Johnny
\nImage credit: Nguoi Noi Tieng<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Throughout her remarkable career, H\u1ed3ng \u00c1nh has also won numerous awards at C\u00e1nh Di\u1ec1u V\u00e0ng<\/em>, Vietnam\u2019s Golden Kite Film Festival.<\/p>\n

Resilient and ambitious, H\u1ed3ng \u00c1nh also has a successful crossover to the directing field. The Way Station<\/em> (2017), her first directorial debut, won numerous international awards such as the Best Film<\/em> award at the 2017 ASEAN Film Festival.<\/p>\n

\n

19. Ng\u00f4 Thanh V\u00e2n – Vietnam\u2019s top female action star<\/strong><\/h3>\n
\n

\"Ngo
\nImage credit: Nguoi Noi Tieng<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Among singing, modeling, dancing, and film production, there\u2019s hardly any area in show business where <\/span>Ng\u00f4 Thanh V\u00e2n (1979- )<\/b>, also known as Veronica Ngo, is not involved in.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Ngo
\nImage adapted from: <\/span>MovieZ Ultra<\/span><\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Ng\u00f4 Thanh V\u00e2n began her singing career in 2002 and made public appearances in numerous TV shows and music videos but not didn\u2019t achieve as much success. Only when she landed a leading role in <\/span>D\u00f2ng M\u00e1u Anh H\u00f9ng<\/span> (<\/span>The Rebel)<\/span><\/em> in 2007 did she achieve nationwide fame as a promising female action star.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Ngo
\nImage credit: <\/span>Halids<\/span><\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Directed by Charlie Nguy\u1ec5n, <\/span>The Rebel<\/em> <\/span>is a Vietnamese period film set in colonial French Indochina time in 1922. It tells the story of V\u00f5 Thanh Th\u00fay, a revolutionist who falls in love with a high-ranking official (played by Johnny Tr\u00ed Nguy\u1ec5n) who works for the French administration and persuades him to join her father\u2019s nationalist movement for freedom.<\/span><\/p>\n

After <\/span>The Rebel<\/span><\/em>, Ng\u00f4 Thanh V\u00e2n continued her enchanting silver screen romance with Johnny Tr\u00ed Nguy\u1ec5n in other action movies such as<\/span> B\u1eaby R\u1ed3ng<\/span> (<\/span>Clash)<\/span><\/em> in 2009, in which she played an ass-kicking hitwoman.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Ngo
\nImage credit: <\/span>VG Entertainment<\/span><\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

In 2017, Ng\u00f4 Thanh V\u00e2n tried her hand as the chief producer of C\u00f4 Ba S\u00e0i G\u00f2n (Miss Ba Saigon)<\/em>, a movie about Vietnamese <\/a>ao dai<\/em> which later became the biggest hit of the year, fueling a traditional ao dai <\/em><\/a>movement across the country.<\/p>\n

\"Ngo
\nImage adapted from: <\/span>Veronica Ngo<\/span><\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

She\u2019s also one of the few Vietnamese actors contributing to promote Asian representation in Hollywood through her role as pilot Paige in the 2017 epic space film<\/span> Star Wars: Episode VIII \u2013 The Last Jedi<\/span><\/em>.<\/p>\n

\"Ngo
\nImage credit: The Thao Van Hoa<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

In 2019, Ng\u00f4 Thanh V\u00e2n produced and also starred in Hai Ph\u01b0\u1ee3ng (Furie)<\/em>, which tells the story of a former gangster\u2019s journey to rescue her daughter from her enemies. After only 2 weeks of release, Hai Ph\u01b0\u1ee3ng<\/em> grossed USD5.8 million and became the highest-grossing blockbuster the country has ever seen.<\/p>\n

While Ng\u00f4 Thanh V\u00e2n\u2019s acting skills have not earned much praise from local viewers and critics, her dedication and determination in learning martial arts for on-screen hand-to-hand combat makes her a highly respected actress in Vietnam.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

20. Johnny Tr\u00ed Nguy\u1ec5n – the most acclaimed action star among Vietnamese actors<\/strong><\/h3>\n
\n

\"Johnny
\nImage adapted from: MovieZ Ultra<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Emigrating to the US at the age of 9, Johnny Tr\u00ed Nguy\u1ec5n <\/b>(1974-)<\/strong> began his acting career as a stuntman in multiple Hollywood movies such as Spider 2<\/em> and Jarhead<\/em>.<\/p>\n

However, the talented actor only started rising to prominence after returning to Vietnam and starring in D\u00f2ng M\u00e1u Anh H\u00f9ng (The Rebel)<\/em>, Vietnam’s greatest blockbuster in 2007.<\/p>\n

\"Johnny
\nImage adapted from: Johnny Tr\u00ed Nguy\u1ec5n<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

In the movie, directed by Johnny Tr\u00ed Nguy\u1ec5n played the role of L\u00ea V\u0103n C\u01b0\u1eddng, a high-ranking official assigned with the task of hunting down Vietnamese nationalists who were planning coup attempts against the French administration.<\/p>\n

After witnessing his fellow Vietnamese people being slaughtered by French colonists, he turned around and started a rebellion with his lover, a revolutionist, to fight for his people\u2019s freedom.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Johnny
\nImage adapted from: MovieZ Ultra<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Filled with mind-blowing stunts, an overwhelming feast of combat featuring Vietnamese traditional martial art (Vovinam), epic music scores, and state-of-the-art sets and technology for the time, The Rebel <\/em>won tremendous praise from local and international audiences.<\/p>\n

\"Johnny
\nJohnny Tr\u00ed Nguy\u1ec5n in B\u1ee5i \u0110\u1eddi Ch\u1ee3 L\u1edbn<\/em>
\nImage adapted from: <\/span><\/em>Johnny Tr\u00ed Nguy\u1ec5n<\/a><\/span><\/em>
\n
\nAfter the success of The Rebel<\/em>, Johnny Tr\u00ed Nguy\u1ec5n starred in a few other action movies which all turned out to be huge blockbuster hits such as <\/span>B\u1eaby R\u1ed3ng (<\/span>Clash)<\/em>, a 2009 movie about the tenacity of Saigon\u2019s underworld and <\/span>B\u1ee5i \u0110\u1eddi Ch\u1ee3 L\u1edbn (Cho Lon Gangs)<\/em>, a 2013 movie about the seedy underbelly of Ch\u1ee3 L\u1edbn, Saigon\u2019s Chinatown.<\/span>
\n<\/span><\/p>\n

Johnny Tr\u00ed Nguy\u1ec5n happens to be the nephew of Nguy\u1ec5n Ch\u00e1nh T\u00edn, who also starred in The Rebel<\/em><\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/em>as Johnny’s father.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Johnny
\nImage credit: Johnny Tr\u00ed Nguy\u1ec5n<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

After filming B\u1ee5i \u0110\u1eddi Ch\u1ee3 L\u1edbn<\/em>,<\/i> Johnny took a step back from acting to focus on operating his dojo, only making appearances in his Youtube videos<\/a> where he shares his thoughts about martial arts<\/a>, meditation, and motor skills.<\/p>\n

Ruggedly handsome and undeniably talented, the well-respected actor is arguably <\/span>the most<\/span><\/i> influential action movie star in Vietnam since the turn of the century.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

The most famous Vietnamese actors<\/strong><\/h3>\n
\n

Dating back to the beginning of the cinema business in the 1950s, famous Vietnamese actors such as Th\u1ea9m Th\u00fay H\u1eb1ng, Th\u00e0nh \u0110\u01b0\u1ee3c, and Nguy\u1ec5n Ch\u00e1nh T\u00edn were the driving force behind local residents flooding theaters over the weekends and buying stylish clothes worn by these celebrities.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

From romance movies imbued with the influence of the ongoing Vietnam War to family dramas telling the stories of Vietnamese families coping with life challenges, we can follow the movies of these Vietnamese actors to trace our country\u2019s flourishing cinematic culture amid the challenging war and post-war times<\/a>.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Also check out:<\/span><\/p>\n