On December 18, 2024, something unexpected happened inside the walls of Hue’s Imperial City. In a traditional wooden house nestled in the Internal Affairs complex, a groundbreaking cultural-tech project was born: “Imperial Archeology Chronicles” – a modern fusion of heritage, gaming, and digital interactivity, tailor-made for Generation Z.
At first glance, it might seem like just another toy. But this is no ordinary collectible. Each piece in the “Imperial Archeology Chronicles” is inspired by iconic artifacts from the Nguyen Dynasty: the Great Bell of Thien Mu Pagoda, the Nine Dynastic Urns, and the royal throne. These miniature treasures are hidden inside blind boxes, tapping into the thrill of surprise that modern collectors love.
But the real innovation lies beneath the surface.
Every model is embedded with an NFC chip (Near Field Communication), allowing users to scan it with their smartphones. Instantly, a world of digital content unlocks: videos, facts, stories, and historical insights—all designed to educate in an engaging, mobile-first format. It’s heritage, reimagined.
Behind the tech is Nomion digital ID and blockchain integration, ensuring each piece is verifiable, unique, and tied to curated cultural knowledge. This is one of Vietnam’s first true forays into the “phygital” space—where physical objects and digital experiences blend seamlessly.
A New Way to Experience History
The project is more than just cool tech—it’s an educational mission wrapped in the excitement of collectible culture. Aimed squarely at young audiences, especially Gen Z, “Imperial Archeology Chronicles” turns static museum artifacts into dynamic, touchable experiences.
The goal is to rekindle pride in Vietnam’s imperial history by making it accessible, relatable, and fun. It’s also part of a broader vision: integrating cultural heritage into the digital economy, sparking creative industries rooted in tradition.
Community Reactions and Future Potential
Content creator Giao Cùn (Ngô Thị Quỳnh Giao) praised the concept, noting its potential to rival collectible products from countries with well-established cultural markets. She emphasized how storytelling and interactive design could help young audiences truly connect with the past.
Nguyễn Long, General Secretary of the Vietnam Computer Society, believes the project is well-positioned for success, especially with Vietnam’s rising tech infrastructure and growing support for digital transformation in heritage conservation.
More than just a product, “Imperial Archeology Chronicles” is a symbol of how innovation can breathe new life into old stories—creating something playful, purposeful, and truly Vietnamese.