Interactive learning and social media outreach are making military museums more relevant and appealing to younger generations.
Vietnam’s military history museums, including the Vietnam Military History Museum and the War Remnants Museum, continue to draw strong interest from the public, especially young visitors. Interviews reveal a common desire among youth: hands-on experiences that bring history to life.
Experience-driven expectations
Outdoor space at the Vietnam Military History Museum. Photo: T. Le
The Vietnam Military History Museum has recently gained popularity thanks to its spacious, modern design and free admission. However, some believe its true popularity will be measured when ticket prices are introduced, as has happened at other museums.
VietNamNet reporters spoke with several young visitors, who unanimously expressed their wish for more interactive and immersive experiences.
Ngoc, 20, from Thach That, told reporters, “Young people are drawn to experiential learning. The museum should offer areas to assemble and disassemble infantry weapons, simulate explosive placement, use blank-firing AK rifles, pack gear for river crossing missions, and even try traditional Hoang Cam stove cooking.”
She added, “Such military skill training is both educational and engaging. These activities could be fee-based, adding revenue for the museum while attracting more youth through immersive national defense education.”
Overwhelmed but determined
Exhibit space at the War Remnants Museum. Photo: Nguyen Hue
According to Lam Ngo Hoang Anh, Deputy Director of the War Remnants Museum, rising visitor numbers have put a strain on both staff and facilities.
“With nearly 70 staff members and laborers, we now serve 5,000 visitors daily - sometimes up to 7,000 - even on weekends and holidays. This is ten times more than the 500 visitors the museum was originally designed to accommodate when it opened in late 2010,” Hoang Anh said.
He acknowledged that the museum is lagging behind in digital marketing and tourist engagement, particularly with modern trends. Nonetheless, efforts are underway to train more bilingual guides and improve infrastructure.
Since late 2024, museum leaders and technicians have been developing a smart interactive museum project, which is now nearing completion.
During a visit, reporters were invited to try the bilingual-guided 3D museum experience. “Contrary to the belief that virtual museums deter visits, we’ve found that online interactivity boosts curiosity and encourages in-person visits. Online platforms amplify the desire to experience the real thing,” Hoang Anh noted.
The War Remnants Museum's online version is set to launch soon and will undergo ongoing technological upgrades. In addition, the museum plans to modernize its physical displays to enhance visitor engagement.
While open to collaboration with artists, students, and cultural content creators, Hoang Anh emphasized the importance of responsible partnerships: “We’re open, but the museum’s image must be accurately represented in all media.”
As a public service unit under Decree 60/2021/ND-CP, the museum operates under financial self-reliance guidelines. It earns revenue through ticket sales at VND 40,000 (about USD 1.60) per visitor.
“This modest income sustains museum operations, pays staff, supports exhibits, and provides services to visitors. We don’t prioritize profit. Our canteen only sells bottled drinks, and the souvenir shop offers items that meet basic visitor demand. With such high visitor numbers, our primary mission is political education, not commercial gain,” Hoang Anh said.
The power of influencers and content creators
Lam Ngo Hoang Anh, Deputy Director of the War Remnants Museum. Photo: Nguyen Hue
Last year, the Vietnam Fine Arts Museum honored its top Facebook fans and creators of the most-viewed TikTok videos featuring the museum.
According to Dr. Nguyen Anh Minh, Director of the Vietnam Fine Arts Museum, just a few years ago the institution struggled with low foot traffic despite housing nine national treasures and over 20,000 valuable artifacts.
The museum’s revival has been credited in large part to young social media content creators. With viral videos, compelling posts, and wide-reaching engagement, these influencers have become vital ambassadors for cultural heritage.
Dr. Bui Ngoc Quang, Acting Director of the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, believes that attracting young audiences requires tailored strategies. “Each museum has unique strengths and characteristics. To truly engage young people, we must research and develop distinct, innovative experiences.”
Vietnamnet.vn
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