The Legend of the Dragon Descendants

One of Vietnam’s most treasured origin stories is the legend of the Dragon and Fairy. This timeless tale explains the roots of the Vietnamese people. It speaks of strength, sacrifice, and a powerful sense of unity that still shapes the nation's identity today. This legend has become a symbol of national pride, reminding every Vietnamese of their deep, ancient bond as one people.

In the early days of Lạc Việt, the land was wild and dangerous, filled with terrifying monsters and dark spirits. From the depths of the sea emerged a mighty protector named Lạc Long Quân, a dragon king with divine powers. He came ashore to help the people, using his extraordinary strength to defeat the monsters that threatened their lives. More than a warrior, Lạc Long Quân was a guide and teacher. He shared essential knowledge such as farming, fishing, and building shelters, helping the people live safer, more prosperous lives.

Far away in the northern mountains lived Âu Cơ, a beautiful princess descended from Thần Nông, the god of agriculture. When she heard about the lush and fertile land of Lạc Việt, she traveled south and met Lạc Long Quân. Their connection was immediate and deep. They fell in love, married, and lived happily together in a peaceful palace on land.

One day, Âu Cơ gave birth not to a single child, but to a magical pouch containing one hundred eggs. From these eggs came one hundred strong and handsome sons. These children would become the ancestors of the Vietnamese people, born from both the sea and the mountains, embodying the harmony between two great forces of nature. However, over time, Lạc Long Quân began to feel the call of the sea, while Âu Cơ remained deeply connected to the mountains. Though their love never faded, they agreed to part ways, each returning to their natural homeland. They made a solemn promise to always support each other and their children whenever needed.

They divided their children equally. Lạc Long Quân led fifty sons to the coast and taught them the ways of the sea. Âu Cơ took the other fifty to the mountains to continue her life in the highlands. Their eldest son was chosen to become the first king of the Vietnamese people. He took the name Hùng Vương and founded the kingdom of Văn Lang, with its capital in Phong Châu. This marked the birth of Vietnam’s first nation and royal dynasty.

This story is not just a myth. It is the foundation of Vietnamese identity and unity. Even today, Vietnamese people proudly refer to themselves as “Con Rồng Cháu Tiên,” meaning “Descendants of the Dragon and Fairy.” This powerful name expresses a deep reverence for their shared origins. It serves as a reminder that no matter where they come from, whether it is from the sea or from the mountains, they are all one people, connected by the same ancestral spirit.