More than 60 young people from Vietnam and the Republic of Korea came together to connect, exchange ideas, and share climate initiatives at the event “Vietnam–Korea Youth Acting Green for a Shared Future.”
On 22 April 2026, Save the Children Korea and Save the Children Vietnam in collaboration with Hong Duc University, Thanh Hoa co-organized a youth exchange event under the theme of joint climate action.
The event is part of the “Earthemble – Youth Action for the Earth” initiative, launched by Save the Children Korea, with participation from children and youth involved in the project “Climate Resilience through Forest Plantation and Climate Education.”
Unlike traditional forums, this year’s programme placed youth at the center - empowering them to take ownership from ideation and cross-border online discussions to facilitating on-site activities.
Photo: President of Hong Duc University, speaking at the event.
According to Associate Professor Dr. Le Hoang Ba Huyen, President of Hong Duc University, the event - held in celebration of Earth Day - also reaffirmed the leadership role of young people in addressing climate change.
“Through exchange and connection, I hope you will become pioneers in spreading messages to protect our green planet. Let the knowledge gained in schools and at the Climate Change Education Center translate into meaningful actions starting today,” he emphasized.
Ms. Cho Minsun, representative of Save the Children Korea, highlighted concerns about the impacts of climate change on children’s lives- from health and education to future opportunities. However, she stressed that children and youth are not only those affected but can also be powerful agents of change.
“Today, we come together to discuss, listen, and share perspectives toward positive environmental actions. I believe the voices and commitments made here will contribute to meaningful change, both now and in the future,” she noted.
Photo: Save the Children Korea’s representative speaking at the event.
Through a short play, Vietnamese youth conveyed a clear message: climate change is no longer a distant issue but one that directly affects daily life. They also expressed confidence that small changes in everyday habits are key to creating positive environmental impact.
“When we connect, we not only learn from each other but also spread a spirit of action, building a more responsible generation for the climate,” shared a youth representative from Korea.
The programme also featured interactive activities such as discussions on energy saving, reducing plastic waste, promoting sustainable lifestyles, and protecting green spaces. Participants co-created a “Dream Tree – Commitment Tree” to share messages and actions for a greener future. A tree-planting activity at Ben En National Park was also organized, contributing to ecosystem restoration and strengthening local climate resilience.
Beyond exchange, the event introduced a more participatory approach to climate action, affirming the proactive role of youth in driving positive change, with the support of businesses, international organizations, and local partners.
Photo: Young people from Vietnam and Korea planting melaleuca together in Ben En National Park.
The project “Climate Resilience through Forest Plantation and Climate Education” is being implemented from 2024 to 2026 with support from Hyundai Engineering, Hyundai Motor Group, Community Chest of Korea, and Save the Children. It aims to strengthen climate resilience through education and ecosystem restoration.
With the project’s support, a range of environmental initiatives have been rolled out, including the establishment of a Climate Change Education Center at Hong Duc University and the development of education programmes for high school students. These efforts are expected to engage over 5,700 students in climate awareness activities and more than 5,000 youth in youth-led communication campaigns.
