Ethnic Groups in Cambodia - Vietnamese

Vietnamese

The Vietnamese is the largest ethnic minority in Cambodia, with an estimated 2 million immigrants living in many areas. Although the Vietnamese language has been determined to be a Mon–Khmer language, there are very few cultural connections between the two peoples because the early Khmers were influenced by the Indian cultural sphere while the Vietnamese are part of the Chinese cultural sphere. Ethnic tensions between the two can be traced to the dark ages of Cambodia (from the 15th to 19th centuries), during which time Vietnam attempted to vassalize Cambodia. Control over Cambodia during this, its weakest point, fluctuated between Thailand and Vietnam. Vietnam unlike Thailand, wanted Cambodia to adopt Vietnamese governmental practices, dress, and language. The Khmers resented and resisted until they became a French colony.

Modern Vietnamese in Cambodia are mainly descended from settlers who immigrated in the early 20th century. Most no longer speak Vietnamese, creating a social dilemma. They have engaged primarily in aquaculture on the southern banks of the Mekong Delta. Many are assimilated into Khmer society, but there are still those who keep their separate social identity. This however, still doesn't stop the growing presence of the Vietnamese.