On the evening of July 4, 2025, the Vietnamese television game show "Vua tiếng Việt" (King of Vietnamese) aired its seventeenth episode of the fourth season on VTV3, marking a significant moment in the program’s history. This episode featured a riveting contest centered on the theme "Xe" (Vehicle), a deceptively simple topic that unfolded into a rich tapestry of linguistic challenges, testing the depth and versatility of contestants’ Vietnamese language skills.
The show, known for its intellectual rigor and cultural depth, pits contestants against a series of four escalating rounds: Reflex, Explanation, Chaining, and Usurpation. Each round demands not only quick thinking but also a profound understanding of Vietnamese vocabulary, idioms, slang, and literary symbolism. The stakes are high, with only one contestant crowned "Vua tiếng Việt" per episode, receiving an iconic ring symbolizing mastery of the language and a grand cash prize of up to 320 million Vietnamese dong (approximately $13,500 USD).
Episode 17 featured four contestants: Nguyễn Hà Thu, Vũ Thị Thu Hiền, Cấn Vũ Hoài Sơn, and Hoàng Trọng Sang. Over the course of the competition, the participant with the lowest score in each round was eliminated, whittling the field down to the two male finalists, Cấn Vũ Hoài Sơn and Hoàng Trọng Sang. Demonstrating calm composure, sharp intellect, and strategic acumen, Hoàng Trọng Sang triumphed over Cấn Vũ Hoài Sơn with a decisive 5-2 victory in the third round, securing his place in the final and most critical stage of the contest.
In the climactic final round, Hoàng Trọng Sang faced the challenge of guessing a nine-letter keyword based on a succinct yet layered hint: "A thick steel casing, often used to refer to armored vehicles." With the support and encouragement of the host, the esteemed People's Artist Xuân Bắc, Hoàng Trọng Sang confidently answered "thiết giáp," the Vietnamese term for "armor" or "armored plate," within eight seconds. This correct answer clinched his victory and the full prize of 320 million VND, the largest cash reward in the show's history.
Hoàng Trọng Sang, a 36-year-old communications specialist and journalism graduate from Ninh Bình province, impressed viewers and judges alike with his poised and nuanced command of the Vietnamese language. Throughout the episode, his performance reflected not only linguistic dexterity but also a deep cultural appreciation and sensitivity to the subtleties of his native tongue.
Upon winning, Hoàng Trọng Sang expressed heartfelt gratitude and reflected on the significance of his achievement: "I feel immensely honored to be named Vua tiếng Việt. The prize of 320 million dong is not only a material reward but also a memorable milestone for me. I plan to use this money to support my living expenses and invest further in my education, continuing to enhance my academic qualifications. If given the opportunity, I would love to participate in other intellectual programs produced by VTV." His ambitions underscore a commitment to lifelong learning and a passion for Vietnamese language and culture.
The show's host, People's Artist Xuân Bắc, once again captivated the audience with his dynamic and witty presentation style. His role extends beyond mere facilitation; he inspires contestants and viewers alike to cherish and celebrate the richness of the Vietnamese language. Xuân Bắc's engaging presence has been a cornerstone of the program since its inception, helping to elevate "Vua tiếng Việt" into a beloved cultural institution.
Season 4 of "Vua tiếng Việt" introduced a revamped format emphasizing direct competition and finality. Unlike previous seasons, only one contestant per episode can claim the crown, with no second chances or comeback rounds. This format heightens the drama and intensity, compelling contestants to bring their best every time. The show's challenges have grown increasingly sophisticated, weaving together linguistic complexity and cultural heritage, thus resonating deeply with a community passionate about preserving and celebrating the Vietnamese language.
Since its debut on September 10, 2021, "Vua tiếng Việt" has evolved into more than just a game show. It serves as a cultural journey that illuminates the beauty, flexibility, and depth of Vietnamese — a language that carries the soul of the nation. Each episode tells a story of words, identity, and pride, connecting audiences to their linguistic heritage in fresh and meaningful ways.
Episode 17’s theme, "Xe," may have seemed straightforward at first glance, but it opened doors to a vast semantic landscape. Contestants navigated everything from everyday vehicles to archaic terms, slang, and literary symbols. This multifaceted approach not only tested their knowledge but also their ability to appreciate the language's layered meanings and cultural nuances.
Hoàng Trọng Sang’s victory is a testament to the power of dedication, intellect, and cultural reverence. His success story is inspiring, especially as he plans to reinvest his winnings into education, embodying the spirit of continuous growth. As "Vua tiếng Việt" continues to captivate audiences, it fosters a renewed appreciation for Vietnamese — a language that is as vibrant and dynamic as the people who speak it.
