In recent days, the emergence of some images from cosplay events has compelled the authorities to reconsider the ban on organizing cosplay events in Hanoi. This information has stirred the enthusiasm of cosplay enthusiasts in Hanoi, despite the fact that this is a cultural activity that has brought joy to many over the years.
In light of this situation, we would like to revisit a passionate status from a cosplayer named “Fox Nhan” who has participated in cosplay since the early days when this artistic form first entered Vietnam. Over the years, the cosplay community has experienced numerous developments that have shaped it into what it is today. And for many enthusiasts, cosplay is not just a hobby; it represents their community, and it’s worth reflecting on how such a passion can impact the growth of the cosplay scene.
The original status of cosplayer “Fox Nhan”:
“Let’s just take a moment to reflect on the past days. It’s been a long journey, and those who appreciate it will understand. For those who don’t, please move on.”
“During the Giang Vo festival, many of my friends shed tears. We cried together, as it was a poignant reminder of the early days of the festival, those years filled with cherry blossom festivals, and the bittersweet memories of those who participated in the festival for the first time… Every moment feels like a familiar, yet distant memory.”
“Last night, a younger sister told me: ‘Every time I see the announcement of Hanoi being banned from organizing festivals, I can’t help but cry. I cherish the days when I used to cosplay.’
“And I feel sorry for the dedication of those I know, even though they may be facing challenges. However, I understand what they have contributed to the cosplay culture in Vietnam – even though we are aging, we still dedicate time to cosplay, and many memories remain etched in our hearts regarding our talents and artistic pursuits. If (heaven forbid) festivals are banned, will cosplay still thrive?”
An image from the early days of the cosplay community shared by Fox Nhan.
… And will it still thrive?
This is an image from the 2007 cosplay festival; back then, we had to set it up at Thai Thinh Primary School. Before 2010, cosplayers were seen as ‘unruly’ kids, partaking in a passion that was often misunderstood. Anyone who attended festivals back then would know that they were a rarity, followed by a barrage of comments labeling cosplay as “a hobby of nerds,” “cosplay – a new age hobby,” “a childish game that needs to be stopped,” etc. At that time, only characters with vibrant costumes or elaborate makeups would be recognized, closely associated with the term “chaotic.”
Back then, cosplay gatherings often took place offline, where cosplayers would meet at familiar locations like Giang Vo or Bach Thao Park.
The festivals were small-scale, but cosplayers were plentiful and enthusiastic, with only a few having the means to invest in costumes and wigs. The initial investment in organizing festivals wasn’t much, so everything was quite basic, which is why cosplayers were always eager to create vibrant performances.
However, there were many challenges and external pressures that made the cosplay community feel quite fragile, and the desire to “make cosplay thrive” often clashed with the harsh realities of life.
This festival had fangirls and a lot of excitement. One notable moment was when fangirls cheered loudly for “Camineeee” as a cosplayer dressed as Camine DOD appeared coolly on stage. It was a moment filled with joy when the performers embraced each other in celebration after the contest. In my heart, those moments are the most beautiful parts of the festival.
Reflecting on those days, we were all still students. Now we have grown older, but many memories of cosplay are closely tied to the word “youth.” Those days represent a significant part of our lives.
There are people from all walks of life: models, photographers, journalists, civil servants, stylists, and even entrepreneurs… And there are those who still linger with cosplay, still contributing to the community. Life always brings encounters, and I have met many people I truly admire, as well as some I do not like – but I always recognize that they play an important role in the long-standing development of cosplay. Most of the veterans have had to overcome numerous difficulties. Speaking broadly to those who have turned 25, everyone has their own pressures from work, financial burdens, family – and relationships… However, the pressures of adulthood often weigh heavily, and the youthful spirit can sometimes get lost along the way. To maintain passion amidst such pressures, how many, especially those with deep love for the art of cosplay, can truly keep that flame alive?
And looking at the current context, where those who earn a living from selling and renting cosplay outfits, how can cosplayers sustain their passion? Time changes, but cute characters are no longer appealing. Building a family, having children, it’s hard for anyone to still pursue a cosplay career. Is there anyone in the cosplay community who feels that they are losing their passion as they age, even if they once held tightly onto their love for cosplay?
Let’s look forward to the future of festivals.
If a cosplayer is 25 years old and continues to cosplay until they are 30, on average, attending seven festivals a year means they will have participated in 35 festivals throughout their youth.
And what about the perception of those around us regarding cosplay, which seems to be growing more and more distant? The community has struggled to build a positive image for cosplay and manga. Many cosplayers and manga fans of the past have made significant contributions to society and have played a role in promoting the culture of cosplay. Perhaps there are still parents who take their children to festivals and proudly tell their kids: “This is what your parents used to do.”
Let’s honor the dedication of this community, and let’s not break it apart due to the fleeting moments of fame. Because once you identify as a cosplayer, whether you’re dressed in cosplay or freestyle attending a festival, you represent the community and stand as a cultural ambassador of cosplay to the public and society.
I personally think that cosplay isn’t something too grand in the cosplay scene; it’s merely one aspect of the broader culture. However, being someone who has been involved in cosplay since the early days, I feel a sense of gratitude for its long-term development. I have been cosplaying for three years now, even though I face many obstacles (due to work and tight conditions that don’t allow me to continue, not because I dislike it like some people suggest). I still want to keep striving to follow in the footsteps of the prominent Vietnamese cosplayers. I hope to one day pass this passion to my children, allowing them to experience the beauty of this culture.
So, why is it that the cosplay scene seems to be growing more and more divided, with multiple factions and perspectives? Is it because of the nostalgia for those earlier days?
I hope that fellow cosplayers will remain dedicated and develop the art of cosplay, not just for themselves but for the Vietnamese cosplay community and future generations of cosplayers. Let’s avoid seeking fame at the expense of creating scandals that might lead outsiders to feel disdain and discomfort.
May every festival be peaceful.
