How Common is the Nguyen Surname in Vietnam and Who is its Ancestor?
The Nguyen surname is an East Asian name, most prevalent in Vietnam. It is also present in China and Korea, but to a lesser extent.
According to the 2022 census, there are over 90 million Nguyens worldwide (over 100 million in 2023). In Vietnam alone, this family name accounts for approximately 40% of the population, making it the most common. Globally, the Nguyen family name ranks fourth in terms of numbers, following the Li, Zhang, and Wang families of China.

Chart of Vietnamese Family Names
Not only is Nguyen a common surname in Vietnam, but it also has a long history in the country. Many famous figures and national heroes bear this name. One notable example is the Supreme Deity, the First Lucky God of Vietnam, who heads the four immortal saints: Tan Vien Saint – Nguyen Tuan. He was a talented and virtuous man, known for his contributions to the people and the nation.
According to historical documents provided by the Nguyen Clan Association in Vietnam, Kinh Duong Vuong is recognized as the ancestor of the Nguyen clan. Kinh Duong Vuong, whose name was Nguyen (Nguyen Quang), founded the ancient nation of Xich Quy in 2879 BC.
Numerous cultural and historical relics of Kinh Duong Vuong can still be found in present-day Bac Ninh, such as Luy Lau, temples, and his tomb in A Lu village, Dai Dong Thanh commune, Thuan Thanh district; Phat Tich Pagoda in Phat Tich commune, Tien Du district; and Keo Pagoda in Thanh Khuong commune, Thuan Thanh district…

Kinh Duong Vuong is not only the ancestor of the Nguyen family but also of the Vietnamese nation. (Illustrated)
Kinh Duong Vuong is a legendary figure in Vietnamese history. He is considered the ancestor not only of the Nguyen family but also of the entire Vietnamese nation.
According to ancient records, Kinh Duong Vuong’s given name was Loc Tuc. He established the first rudimentary state in the year of Nham Tuat (around 2879 BC), naming it Xich Quy, with its capital in Hong Linh (now Ngàn Hống, Can Loc district, Ha Tinh province). Later, the capital was moved to Ao Viet (present-day Viet Tri).
Kinh Duong Vuong passed the throne to his son, Lac Long Quan. His legacy was continued by Lac Long Quan and the Hung Kings who succeeded him.
Additionally, there are alternative beliefs from various branches and descendants of Nguyen Bac, who consider this great minister to be the ancestor of the Nguyen Dai Tong clan. Nguyen Bac was the son of Nguyen Thuc, a general under Duong Dinh Nghe. This line of thought also suggests that Nguyen Trai, the Nguyen lords, and the Nguyen emperors were all descendants of this clan.
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