The Legend of the Dragon and Fairy

One of Vietnam’s most treasured origin stories is the legend of the Dragon and Fairy, a tale that explains the roots of the Vietnamese people and highlights their deep pride in unity and resilience.

Lạc Long Quân: The Dragon King Who Protected the People

Long ago, the land of ancient Vietnam, known as Lạc Việt, was plagued by monsters and dark forces. Lạc Long Quân, a dragon king from the ocean depths, often came ashore to help the people. With his extraordinary strength, he defeated dangerous creatures and taught the villagers essential skills like farming, fishing, and building shelters, allowing them to live peaceful and prosperous lives.

The Love Story of Lạc Long Quân and Âu Cơ

Far to the north, among the misty mountains, lived Âu Cơ, a beautiful princess descended from the farming god, Thần Nông. Hearing of Lạc Việt’s lush landscapes, Âu Cơ journeyed south and met Lạc Long Quân. The two fell deeply in love and soon became husband and wife, living happily together in a palace on land.

The Birth of One Hundred Sons

After some time, Âu Cơ became pregnant and gave birth not to a single child but to a magical pouch containing one hundred eggs. From these eggs hatched one hundred strong, handsome sons—the ancestors of the Vietnamese people. However, Lạc Long Quân, being a dragon of the sea, felt out of place living permanently on land. With heavy hearts, he and Âu Cơ decided to part ways but promised to always support each other when needed.

Dividing the Children: A Symbol of Unity

Lạc Long Quân took fifty sons with him to the seas, while Âu Cơ led the other fifty into the mountains. Their eldest son became the first king, known as Hùng Vương, who established the first Vietnamese kingdom, Văn Lang, with its capital in Phong Châu.

This legend gave rise to a powerful national identity. Even today, Vietnamese people proudly refer to themselves as "Con Rồng Cháu Tiên"—Descendants of the Dragon and Fairy—symbolizing unity, strength, and a deep reverence for their shared roots.