The relations between China and Vietnam began early in the Ch’in Dynasty of China. In the Han Dynasty, Vietnam was a state of China, and was completely under the sway of Confucianism. At the end of the 12th century, Vietnam became an independent country, but still presented tributes to China. At the beginning of the 15th century, Vietnam again became a province of China. The close relation between Vietnam and China, seen from these facts, throws light on the general influence of Confucianism on Vietnam. Even during the last dynasty (1802-1883) of Vietnam, for example, Confucianism was held in high esteem; Confucius was honored as “the greatest sage and teacher,” and the Confucian memorial ceremony was preserved. In 1955, after Vietnam gained its independence, Confucianism was revived, and the birthday of’ Confucius was made a national holiday. All these facts show that Confucius is highly respected by the Vietnamese.

Kung Te-Cheng, the 77th lineal descendent of Confucius.