“Keo co” recognized as World Intangible Cultural Heritage Site
Sunday, 06/12/2015 18:17 (GMT+7)
The Department of Cultural Heritage under the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism announced “Keo co” (Tug of war), a game of Vietnam, Cambodia, the Philippines and the Republic of Korea, has been officially recognized as the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO).
The reorganization was made at the 10th session of the Intergovernmental Committee for Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage of the UNESCO in Namibia.
“Keo co” is the 10th UNESCO-recognised Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity of Vietnam.
The others are Vi Giam folk songs of Nghe Tinh province, the art of “Don ca tai tu” music and song in Southern Vietnam, the worship of Hung Kings and Xoan singing in Phu Tho province, Giong festival of Phu Dong and Soc Temples, Ca Tru singing, Quan ho Bac Ninh folk songs, Nha Nhac – Vietnamese court music, and the space of gong culture in the Central Highlands
The folk game is a unique Intangible Cultural Heritage that is played in many countries in the Asia Pacific region. It aims to pray for abundant harvests and prosperity. They mark the start of the agricultural cycle and often begin with commemorative rites to local deities.
‘Keo co’ is also an ancient folk game of Vietnamese ethnic minority groups such as Kinh, Thai, Tay, Nung, Giay and played by generations in the country./.
Compiled by BTA