NÙNG

Other names: Xuong, Giang, Nung An, Nung Coi, Phan Sinh, Nung Chao, Nung Inh, Qui Rin, Nung Din, and Khen Lai

Population

856,412 people

Locality

Lang Son, Cao Bang, Bac Thai, Bac Giang, Bac Ninh and Tuyen Quang provinces.

Customs & Habits

The Nung mainly worship their ancestors, spirits, saints, Confucius, and Kwan Yin. Nung villages are often built on hillsides. There is usually a submerged field in front of the house and a garden in the back. The Nung houses are always built on stilts.

Culture

The Nung language resembles the Tay and belongs to the Tay-Thai Group. This group has a written language called Nom Nung (Nung scripts) which has prevailed since the 17th century. The Nung have an abundant wealth of folk arts and cultural activities including folk songs and alternative songs (“sli”). The smooth melodies of the “sli” are harmonious with the natural sounds of the forests and mountains. This type of folk song is a combination of verse and music.

The “Lung Tung” (Going to the Fields) Ceremony is very famous and attracts many people of all ages. This ceremony is always organized in the first month of the lunar year.

Costumes

The Nung mainly wear indigo attire.

Economy

The Nung live on rice and corn. They also grow cash crops and fruit trees, such as tangerines and persimmons, and anise.