Hanoi, Vietnam – The capital city vibrated with electrifying energy as the “8Wonder: Moments of Wonder 2025” music festival captivated over 50,000 attendees on August 23rd. This spectacular event, organized by VinWonders, a subsidiary of Vingroup, served as a cornerstone in the nation’s 80th anniversary of National Day celebrations, marking a significant leap forward for Vietnam’s burgeoning entertainment industry and its place on the global music map.
A Monumental Celebration of Vietnamese Culture and Music
The festival, held at the impressive National Exhibition Fair Center in Hanoi, showcased a dynamic blend of world-renowned international artists and celebrated Vietnamese talent. Headliners included global music giants DJ Snake, J Balvin, The Kid LAROI, and DPR Ian, who were joined by prominent Vietnamese stars like Soobin, Hoa Minzy, and the emerging Gen Z rapper, tlinh. The event was not merely a concert but a cultural statement, designed to honor the spirit of a strong Vietnam and its aspirations, aiming to position the country as a premier destination for festivals and entertainment in the region.
Historic Collaborations Pave the Way for Local Talent
A pivotal highlight of “8Wonder: Moments of Wonder 2025” was the innovative “Wonder Sound Lab” initiative. This platform facilitated unprecedented musical partnerships, most notably the groundbreaking collaboration between Vietnamese artist tlinh and global music icon J Balvin. Described as a “Latin carnival,” their performance was hailed as a historic moment, signifying a Vietnamese artist performing as an equal to an international superstar. This fusion of local and global sounds represents a new era for Vietnamese music, where young artists are empowered to experiment, innovate, and showcase their unique artistry on an international stage. Experts note that such collaborations are crucial steps in elevating Vietnamese music beyond a “local game” and fostering its expansion into the global cultural identity. This initiative aims to not only absorb international excellence but also to help shape trends and create unique value within the global contemporary music landscape.
A Stellar Lineup and Unforgettable Performances
The festival’s lineup delivered a diverse range of musical experiences. S(TRONG) Trọng Hiếu kicked off the night with a powerful performance, setting an emotional tone. Hoa Minzy’s rendition of “Bac Bling,” joined by over 200 schoolchildren, resonated deeply with the national celebratory mood. Soobin, appearing in a stylized áo dài, delivered an anthem of national pride with his song “Nguoi Viet,” further connecting with the audience on a profound level. The performances by international stars like DJ Snake and The Kid LAROI provided high-energy sets, solidifying “8Wonder” as a world-class music event.
Vingroup’s Vision: Elevating Vietnam’s Global Standing
Organized by VinWonders, part of Vingroup, the festival underscores the conglomerate’s commitment to making Vietnam a significant cultural destination. Dinh Tuan Dat, a performing arts expert, commented that “8Wonder demonstrates Vingroup’s serious investment in making Vietnam a cultural destination for the region.” The event’s success, including its grand scale, state-of-the-art sound and lighting, and diverse artist roster, sets a new benchmark for future music festivals in Vietnam. This strategic investment is viewed by experts as a powerful boost for Vietnamese tourism and a key factor in promoting the country’s image as prosperous, dynamic, and culturally rich on the international stage. The festival’s success also reflects the growing confidence of international artists in Vietnam’s music market, assured by the country’s technical capabilities and growing appeal.