South Korean Influencer Explores Vietnam's Mekong Delta

South Korean influencer Young Ju, accompanied by singer Hari Won, has explored the picturesque Mekong Delta region of Vietnam. The trip, which took place in late July, allowed both personalities to experience the traditional culture and lifestyle of the southwestern region. The duo traveled approximately two hours from Ho Chi Minh City to Thoi Son Island in Dong Thap province. Guided by a local, they embarked on a boat trip along the canals, admired the scenery of nipa palm groves, navigated the iconic "monkey bridges," and participated in fruit picking from orchards laden with ripe rambutan, plums, and longan. They also engaged in activities such as making puffed rice and observing the production process of traditional coconut candy at a handicraft workshop. Young Ju shared that upon visiting a local home and seeing beehives, she was reminded of her childhood, when her grandparents in South Korea raised bees for 20 years. She recalled tasting honey her grandfather personally harvested during her time living with them. "Seeing the familiar scenery brought back memories of my relatives back home," she stated. Young Ju expressed her appreciation for the fresh air and the friendliness of the local people. Having studied Vietnamese for many years, she was able to communicate effectively with everyone she met. She also mentioned feeling happy when locals recognized her from food experience vlogs she had previously posted, receiving their warm support. Young Ju, 31, was born and raised in South Korea. She participated in Mnet's "Idol School" program, ranking 25th. Rather than pursuing a career in the K-pop market, she came to Vietnam to find opportunities for career development. She has appeared in hit music videos such as "Những kẻ mộng mơ" by Noo Phước Thịnh and "Yêu đừng thề" by Châu Khải Phong. In 2024, she released her debut solo song "Của mình em được không?", which received positive feedback from fans. Over the years, she has developed a close friendship with Hari Won while working in Vietnam's entertainment industry. Hari Won, 41, is of Korean-Vietnamese descent and gained significant recognition in Vietnam after participating in the reality show "The Amazing Race Vietnam" in 2013. She subsequently entered the entertainment industry as a singer and actress, releasing popular songs like "Hương đêm bay xa," "Love You Hate You," "Là cả bầu trời," and "Anh hiểu không," which garnered millions of views. She publicly announced her relationship with actor Trấn Thành in February 2016 and they married later that year. After 10 years together, they have stated that their bond is strengthened by mutual understanding and respect.