From June 12 to 15, 2025, Mongolia’s capital Ulaanbaatar hosted one of the most vibrant cultural events of the year – the “Asia Folk 2025” folklore and handcraft festival. More than 140 artists from 10 countries – including the People’s Republic of China, South Korea, Malaysia, India, Vietnam, Mongolia, Poland, Uzbekistan, and the Sakha Republic of Russia – presented their unique traditions, music, and dances to an international audience.

Handcrafters from Japan, India, Vietnam, the PRC, the Sakha Republic, and South Korea also showcased their handmade items and traditional techniques passed down through generations.

The Golden Cup in the folklore category – along with a cash prize of 15,000,000 MNT – was awarded to Mongolia’s ethno band “Agmat”. The Silver Cup and 4,000,000 MNT each went to Mrs. Zolzaya Damba, a Mongolian throat singer, and Mrs. Nguyen Thi Trung, a musician from Vietnam. The Bronze Cup and 2,000,000 MNT each were awarded to Mrs. Albina Degtyarova, a jaw harp performer from the Sakha Republic, and the Mongolian ensemble “Biyelgee Dance Connection”.

First grade diploma laureates:

• “Darkhan” ethno band, Sakha Republic of Russia

• Ms. Akbarelieva Sevinch, solo dancer, Uzbekistan

• “Ryun” music ensemble, South Korea

• “A Rihyang” music ensemble, South Korea

• “Kim Jung Seop” dance ensemble, South Korea

• Mr. Lkhamragchaa Lkhagvasuren, throat singer, Mongolia

• Mr. Saaryn, solo singer, Sakha Republic of Russia

Second grade diploma laureates:

• Mr. Qi Buhe, solo musician, PRC

• Tanya and Tanisha, duet dancers, India

• “Dance Chance” dance ensemble, Mongolia

• Mr. Bateersurong, solo musician, PRC

• Mrs. Bariha, solo singer, PRC

Third grade diploma laureates:

• “Altai Uyanga” folk song ensemble, PRC

• “Xilin Gol ensemble”, PRC

• Daoligeyang, solo singer, PRC

• Mr. Huhebarisi, solo musician, PRC

• Mrs. Yong Hong, solo singer, PRC

• Mrs. Bu Yinjirigele, solo singer, PRC

• “Khulun” folk song ensemble, PRC

• “Otriin zaluus” music ensemble, PRC

• Mrs. Tong Yu Mei, solo singer, PRC

• “Buir” dance ensemble, PRC

• Mr. Bayaersaihan, solo singer, PRC

Special prizes:

• Young Talent Award: Tanya and Tanisha, duet dancers from “Rock Star” Academy, India

• Honored Cultural Heritage Keeper: Mrs. Alatanqeqige, artistic director of “Altai Uyanga” folk song ensemble, PRC

• Jury Award: “Buir” dance ensemble, PRC

The festival brought together cultures from Asia and Eastern Europe and once again proved that traditional art and handcrafts are alive and thriving when presented with passion and professionalism.