One land, fifty-four colours

Ethnic groups

54

Language families

8

Kinh majority

~85%

The Kinh and Mường form the historic heart of the Vietnamese state, sharing linguistic and cultural roots in the Red River valley. Thổ and Chứt are smaller, closely related branches found in northern highlands.

A widespread family spanning from the Red River through northwest highlands and into Mekong valleys. Known for wet-rice cultivation, silk weaving, and distinctive stilt-house settlements. Tày and Thái are the dominant groups; others (Nùng, Giáy, Lào, Lự, Bố Y, Sán Chay) inhabit more isolated areas.

The most diverse family, spread across the Central Highlands with scattered groups in the South. Characterized by gong orchestras (recognized by UNESCO), indigo cloth and highland markets, stilt-house valleys, and intricate weaving traditions. Ba Na and Xơ Đăng are numerically largest; others include Xtiêng, Bru–Vân Kiều, Mạ, Khơ Mú.

Highland groups from the far north, typically at elevations above 1,000 meters. Known for vibrant embroidery, indigo-dyed textiles, and traditional terraced agriculture. Mông (also spelled Hmông) is by far the largest; Dao and Pà Thẻn are smaller communities.

Maritime and lowland groups found primarily in the South-Central and Southern regions. Gia Rai and Ê Đê inhabit the southern highlands with their own distinct traditions; Chăm are descendants of the ancient Champa Kingdom with brick towers and matrilineal households; Ra Glai and Chu Ru are smaller coastal communities.

Dispersed groups with cultural and linguistic ties to China. Hoa (Ethnic Chinese) maintain their own communities and traditions; Ngái and Sán Dìu are smaller groups, often integrated within broader highland settlements.

Highland minorities in the far north and northwest, often at the highest elevations. Known for traditional dress, distinctive architecture, and isolation from lowland centers. Hà Nhì, Phù Lá, La Hủ, Lô Lô, Cống, and Si La each maintain unique linguistic and cultural practices.

Very small groups primarily in northern uplands, often living adjacent to Hmông and Tày communities. La Chí, La Ha, Cờ Lao, and Pu Péo maintain distinct but underdocumented cultural practices and are among the least-known peoples of Vietnam.