VIET - MUONG
Most residents of the Viet–Muong language group are found in Vietnam, comprising four ethnic groups: Viet (Kinh), Muong, Tho, and Chut, with a total population of nearly 75 million people (as of 2009), accounting for over 87% of the national population.
These ethnic groups share a common historical origin. Their ancestors, the Lac Viet people, initially settled in the midland and delta regions of Northern and North Central Vietnam. Archaeological findings have confirmed a continuous cultural development from the early Bronze Age to the early Iron Age, culminating in the famed Dong Son culture, which flourished from the beginning of the first millennium BCE. The ethnic diversification process continued for many centuries after the Common Era.
Traditionally, the four groups share similar languages and customs. However, differences in living conditions, historical upheavals, and external cultural influences have led to distinct identities. The Viet (Kinh) have become the majority ethnic group of the nation. The Muong are culturally close to the Thai, particularly in terms of social organization. Meanwhile, the Tho and Chut, who have small populations and are divided into many subgroups, live in disadvantaged and remote areas. Due to long-standing marginalization, they have experienced extended periods of decline, making their living conditions among the most difficult in Vietnam.
Many subgroups within the Tho and Chut, as well as the Nguồn group of the Viet people, originally lived in the lowlands but migrated to the mountains long ago. As a result, they have preserved many ancient linguistic and cultural elements of early Viet traditions.
(Source: Vietnam Museum of Ethnology)
