Advances in Social Science and Culture ISSN 2640-9682 (Print) ISSN 2640-9674 (Online) Vol. 6, No. 4, 2024 www.scholink.org/ojs/index.php/assc 1 Original Paper The Impact and Development Trends of Cross-Border Interaction between the Jing Ethnic Group across Yu Wang1 1 Hebei North University, Zhangjiakou, Hebei, China Received: April 19, 2024 Accepted: May 24, 2024 Online Published: July 06, 2024 doi:10.22158/assc.v6n4p1 URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.22158/assc.v6n4p1 Abstract This paper explores the impact and development trends of cross-border interactions of the Jing ethnic group in the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region of northern Vietnam. By outlining the geographical, historical backgrounds, and cultural overview of the Jing ethnic group, it analyzes their roles and influences in cross-border interactions. The study finds that the Jing ethnic people in the region not only act as bridges in economic trade but also promote cultural dissemination and social interactions. Furthermore, the article discusses the stimulating effect of such interactions on local socio-economic development and outlines future trends in cross-border interactions of the Jing ethnic group. Keywords Jing ethnic group, cross-border interactions, economic impact, cultural dissemination 1. Introduction Jing Ethnic Group situated between the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region and northern Vietnam, holds significant geographical importance. It features diverse terrain including mountains, hills, rivers, and plains, endowed with rich natural resources and diverse ecosystems. Historically, the region has served as a crucial node on the ancient Silk Road and Maritime Silk Road, facilitating cultural, trade, and religious exchanges in Southeast Asia. It has also been a pivotal frontier for various dynasties, witnessing numerous historical events and cultural exchanges. The Jing ethnic group, as one of the region's major ethnic groups, has long settled in this area, embedding their culture and local characteristics deeply into the society. Renowned for their diligence, kindness, and intellect, the Jing people play a crucial role in the local economy through agriculture, handicraft production, and trade activities. Moreover, they have a history of close cultural exchanges and mutual development with neighboring ethnic groups such as the Zhuang and Dong, forming a diverse cultural landscape of coexistence. www.scholink.org/ojs/index.php/assc Advances in Social Science and Culture Vol. 6 No. 4, 2024 2 Published by SCHOLINK INC. 2. Overview of the Vietnam Jing Ethnic Group Border Region 2.1 Overview of the Jing Ethnic Group The China-Vietnam border region is located at the junction of southern China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region and northern Vietnam, making its geographic location highly significant. This area features diverse terrain including mountains, hills, rivers, and plains, contributing to rich natural resources and a diverse ecosystem. Historically, the China-Vietnam border region has been a crucial nexus for the ancient Silk Road and Maritime Silk Road, facilitating cultural, trade, and religious exchanges across Southeast Asia. In ancient times, it served as a vital frontier for multiple dynasties, witnessing numerous historical events and cultural interactions. The Jing people, as one of the major ethnic groups in this region, have settled here since ancient times, deeply integrating their culture and local characteristics into the community (Yin, 2018). Within the China-Vietnam border region, the Jing people are renowned for their diligence, kindness, and intelligence, playing significant roles in the economy through agriculture, handicraft production, and trade activities. Additionally, the Jing people have a long history of cultural exchanges and shared development with neighboring ethnic groups such as the Zhuang and Dong, forming a socio-cultural landscape of coexistence and diversity.As times change and economies develop, the Jing community in the China-Vietnam border region has gradually integrated into the broader economic integration between China and Vietnam. Their culture and traditions have been preserved and developed amidst modernization. This region not only serves as a bridge for economic exchanges but also exemplifies cultural diversity and social harmony, contributing significantly to the economic and social development of both China, Vietnam, and the surrounding regions. 2.2 Economic Features and Socio-Cultural Aspects The China-Vietnam border region exhibits diverse economic characteristics, encompassing both traditional agriculture and handicraft industries, as well as emerging trends in modern trade and services. Agriculture remains a cornerstone of the local economy, focusing on staple crops such as rice, fruits, and tea, where the Jing people are particularly renowned for their expertise in agricultural techniques. Additionally, traditional crafts like embroidery and bamboo weaving are integral to Jing culture, serving not only local needs but also fostering trade with Vietnam and other regions.In terms of socio-cultural aspects, the China-Vietnam border region is celebrated for its rich diversity of ethnic cultures. The Jing people, as primary residents, uphold unique customs and religious beliefs, continuing practices such as family reunions and traditional holiday celebrations. Culturally, the Jing people interact closely with neighboring ethnic groups like the Zhuang and Dong, contributing jointly to the prosperity and continuity of regional cultures.With the deepening of economic globalization, the China-Vietnam border region is increasingly becoming a vital link in economic connections between mainland Southeast Asia and East Asia. While preserving their traditional culture, the Jing people actively participate in and promote the local economic transformation, thereby fostering regional stability and development. The economic features and socio-cultural dynamics of this region not only www.scholink.org/ojs/index.php/assc Advances in Social Science and Culture Vol. 6 No. 4, 2024 3 Published by SCHOLINK INC. reflect historical accumulations and cultural diversity but also provide extensive opportunities and space for future cross-cultural exchanges and cooperation (Yu et al., 2020). 2.3 Distribution and Characteristics of the Jing People The Jing people are one of the significant ethnic groups in the China-Vietnam border region, primarily concentrated in Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region in southern China and northern regions of Vietnam. In China, the Jing people are mainly found in border counties such as Fangchenggang and Qinzhou, where they live and work alongside other ethnic groups like the Zhuang and Dong. In Vietnam, the Jing people predominantly reside in mountainous areas and border regions in the north, maintaining language and cultural traditions similar to their counterparts in China.Renowned for their diligence, kindness, and intelligence, the Jing people play vital roles in agriculture, handicraft production, and trade activities. Their language belongs to the Han-Tibetan language family of the Zhuang-Dong group, preserving unique linguistic characteristics and accents influenced by neighboring ethnic languages (Ma, 2023). Culturally, the Jing people possess rich folk traditions including dance, music, festival celebrations, and familial and clan activities, which not only strengthen community cohesion but also serve as significant mediums for cultural inheritance and exchange.The social organization of the Jing people revolves around family and clan structures, emphasizing ancestral traditions and family honor, while also respecting neighborhood relationships and community cooperation. In the process of modernization, the Jing community has progressively integrated into the broader economic integration between China and Vietnam, maintaining and passing down traditional cultures while actively contributing to local economic development and societal progress.The distribution and characteristics of the Jing people illustrate their historical and current realities of coexistence and mutual development with neighboring ethnic groups, providing important references and insights for studying cultural diversity and social interactions in the China-Vietnam border region. 3. Cultural and Historical Background of the Jing Ethnic Group 3.1 Origin and Historical Evolution The Jing ethnic group, as an important ethnic group in southern China, traces its origins and historical evolution back to ancient times. According to historians, the Jing people originated from the fusion and evolution of ancient Han Chinese and indigenous populations in northern Vietnam. Over the course of history, they gradually developed their unique language, culture, and customs.In ancient times, the Jing people were mainly distributed in southern China, including Guangxi and Guangdong, as well as mountainous and border areas in northern Vietnam. Through long-term historical development, they engaged in continuous cultural exchange and integration with neighboring ethnic groups such as the Zhuang and Dong, forming a diverse cultural landscape. Known for their diligence, wisdom, and kindness, the Jing people played significant roles in agriculture, handicraft production, and trade, while maintaining a profound reverence and respect for the natural environment.The cultural characteristics of the Jing people are evident in their language, traditional festivals, performing arts, and clan www.scholink.org/ojs/index.php/assc Advances in Social Science and Culture Vol. 6 No. 4, 2024 4 Published by SCHOLINK INC. organizations. Their language belongs to the Zhuang-Dong language family, influenced by neighboring ethnic languages yet retaining distinctive linguistic features and accents. Regarding clan organizations, the Jing people emphasize the inheritance and unity of family and clan, with family activities and clan gatherings being crucial social events in their community life.With the passage of time and social development, Jing culture has been preserved and developed within the framework of modernization. While upholding their traditional culture, they actively absorb and integrate elements from external cultures, enriching their own cultural content and forms of expression. The historical evolution and cultural development of the Jing people not only reflect the historical landscape of multi-ethnic coexistence and prosperity in southern China, but also provide important historical and cultural perspectives for studying and understanding cultural exchanges and social development in the border areas between China and Vietnam (Bekkevold, 2020). 3.2 Cultural Traditions and Values The Jing people play a significant role in the cultural and social life of the China-Vietnam border region with their rich cultural traditions and deep-seated values. Their cultural traditions manifest in various aspects, including festival celebrations, family heritage, artistic expression, and social organization.The Jing people place great emphasis on the inheritance of family and clan, with the family being the core unit of their social life. Family activities such as clan gatherings, ancestor worship, weddings, and funerals not only strengthen family cohesion but also preserve and promote Jing cultural traditions. Additionally, the Jing people maintain a rich and colorful festival culture, such as the Spring Festival and Qingming Festival, which symbolize not only the celebration of harvest and traditional customs but also the harmony within the community.Artistically, the Jing people excel in singing, dancing, and the production of handicrafts such as embroidery and bamboo weaving. These art forms not only enrich their daily lives but also demonstrate their understanding and expression of the natural environment and cultural traditions.In terms of values, the Jing people emphasize traditional virtues such as diligence, honesty, and filial piety. They value education and talent development, and emphasize the harmonious development of family and community. The work ethic and traditional moral values of the Jing people not only influence their way of life but also positively impact local economic and social development.Overall, the cultural traditions and values of the Jing people reflect their pride in and inheritance of their own culture, as well as demonstrate how they collaborate and prosper with other ethnic groups in modern society. The cultural traditions and values of the Jing people in the China-Vietnam border region inject vitality into the region's social and cultural diversity, and provide abundant resources and opportunities for international cultural exchange and cooperation (Zhang & Jaume, 2022). 3.3 Social Status of the Jing Ethnic Group in the China-Vietnam Border Region As an integral part of the China-Vietnam border region, the Jing ethnic group holds significant social status and cultural influence. They play crucial roles in local economy, politics, and cultural life, which is evident in several aspects:Firstly, the Jing people are highly involved in economic activities. They are www.scholink.org/ojs/index.php/assc Advances in Social Science and Culture Vol. 6 No. 4, 2024 5 Published by SCHOLINK INC. primarily engaged in agriculture, handicraft production, and trade, contributing vitality to the local economy through stable production and commercial activities. The diligence and business acumen of the Jing people make them important driving forces for regional economic development.Secondly, the Jing people hold important positions in the organization and management of local communities. They maintain community cohesion and stability through family and clan units, utilizing forms such as clan gatherings and family meetings. Through their social organization and actions, the Jing people promote the harmonious development and cultural inheritance of local society.The cultural traditions and social status of the Jing people are not only reflected in daily life and social organization but also in political participation and cultural exchange (Qian, Yang & Tang, 2023). They hold significant positions in local governments and civil organizations, participating in decision-making and community building to contribute to the preservation of local interests and cultural traditions.In conclusion, the social status of the Jing ethnic group in the China-Vietnam border region is reflected not only in economic activities and social organization but also in their cultural confidence and social responsibility as an important ethnic group in the region. By preserving and developing their cultural traditions, and promoting the harmonious development of communities, the Jing people have made positive contributions to the coexistence and prosperity of multiple ethnic groups in the China-Vietnam border region. 4. Forms and Characteristics of Cross-border Interaction in the China-Vietnam Border Area 4.1 Trade and Economic Exchange Cross-border trade and economic exchanges in the China-Vietnam border area represent a unique aspect that showcases the region's economic vitality and cultural fusion. Here are the forms and characteristics of trade and economic exchange:Trade activities in the China-Vietnam border area primarily concentrate at international border checkpoints and surrounding markets. The Jing people, as a significant local commercial group, facilitate the circulation of goods and economic cooperation between China and Vietnam through their unique business networks and language advantages. They often engage in small-scale wholesale and retail transactions in markets, covering various sectors such as agricultural products, handicrafts, and daily necessities.Economic exchanges extend beyond trade to include cooperative projects and investment activities. The China-Vietnam border area attracts investments from both countries and others, encompassing infrastructure construction, tourism development, environmental protection, and more. The active participation and investment activities of the Jing people in local economies promote diversification and modernization of the regional economy.Cross-border economic exchanges also promote cultural exchange and integration in the China-Vietnam border area. Jing merchants and residents not only influence and learn from each other in economic activities but also enhance mutual understanding and friendship through cultural festivals, language exchanges, and other forms. This cultural exchange enriches the cultural life of the region and lays a foundation for friendly cooperation internationally.Overall, trade and economic exchanges in the China-Vietnam border area demonstrate the economic vigor and cultural influence of the Jing people as www.scholink.org/ojs/index.php/assc Advances in Social Science and Culture Vol. 6 No. 4, 2024 6 Published by SCHOLINK INC. an important social group in the region. Through their efforts and cooperation, the China-Vietnam border area continues to move towards economic integration and cultural harmony, making positive contributions to local and international development (Barabantseva & Caroline, 2019). 4.2 Cultural Exchange and Education The China-Vietnam border area serves not only as a crucial node for economic exchanges but also as an important platform for cultural exchange and educational cooperation. Here are the forms and characteristics of cultural exchange and education:Cultural exchange in the China-Vietnam border area takes place through various forms, including artistic performances, traditional festivals, and language exchanges. As major residents in the area, the Jing people showcase the unique cultural charm of southern China through traditional arts like singing, dancing, handicraft production, and clan cultural activities to Vietnam and other regions. These cultural expressions not only enrich the cultural life of the region but also enhance understanding and friendship among different ethnic groups.Educational cooperation plays a significant role in the China-Vietnam border area, providing opportunities for local residents to learn and develop. The Jing people promote the sharing and exchange of educational resources by participating in local schools, cultural centers, and educational projects. This cooperation includes language teaching, cultural courses, technical training, and career development, thereby improving the quality of life and cultural literacy of regional residents.The development of cultural exchange and educational cooperation not only promotes cultural diversity and social progress in the China-Vietnam border area but also lays a solid foundation for sustainable development of the local economy. The active participation of the Jing people in cultural and educational fields enriches the cultural content of the region and facilitates friendly cooperation and exchanges internationally (Zhang, 2018). 4.3 Social Interaction and Collaboration Social interaction and collaboration in the China-Vietnam border area are crucial pillars of regional stability and development, with the Jing people playing a key role as an important social group. Here are the forms and characteristics of social interaction and collaboration:Firstly, the Jing people maintain close social connections and interactions in local communities through clan organizations and family networks. They strengthen cohesion and mutual assistance among families through activities such as clan gatherings and family meetings, contributing to the stability and prosperity of local communities.Secondly, social interaction in the China-Vietnam border area extends beyond the grassroots level to include cooperation and coordination between local governments and civil organizations. The Jing people contribute wisdom and strength to local community development and decision-making by participating in local government decisions and community affairs. They actively engage in community building, environmental protection, and cultural heritage preservation, promoting overall progress and improvement in regional society.Lastly, the Jing people play an important role in cross-border regional cooperation, facilitating friendly exchanges and cooperation between China and Vietnam. Through trade, cultural exchanges, and educational cooperation, they expand the scope of www.scholink.org/ojs/index.php/assc Advances in Social Science and Culture Vol. 6 No. 4, 2024 7 Published by SCHOLINK INC. cooperation in the China-Vietnam border area, bridging local economic development and international exchange.In conclusion, social interaction and collaboration among the Jing people in the China-Vietnam border area reflect their active responsibility and spirit of participation as an important social group. Through their efforts and collaboration, the China-Vietnam border area continues to strengthen cultural exchange, economic cooperation, and social stability, making significant contributions to sustainable regional development and international friendship. 5. Impact of Jing Ethnic Interaction in the China-Vietnam Border Area 5.1 Impact on Local Economy The interaction of the Jing ethnic group in the China-Vietnam border area has had profound impacts on the local economy, reflected in several aspects:As a significant commercial group in the China-Vietnam border area, the Jing people have promoted the development and diversification of the local economy through cross-border trade and economic activities. They play a crucial intermediary and driving role in the market economy, strengthening economic ties and cooperation between China and Vietnam through activities such as import-export trade, small-scale commodity transactions, and logistics.Jing merchants, with their business acumen and extensive experience, have not only stimulated the development of traditional industries such as local agricultural products and handicrafts but also propelled the growth of emerging industries such as tourism and services. Through innovative business models and market strategies, they have expanded the market space of the local economy, providing more employment opportunities and economic growth points for local residents.In addition to trade activities, Jing people's investments and capital flows in the local economy have also played a positive role. They participate in projects such as infrastructure construction, real estate development, and tourism facilities, injecting vitality and capital into the local economy, and promoting regional economic modernization and sustainable development.Overall, Jing people's economic activities in the China-Vietnam border area not only promote economic growth and structural optimization but also provide local residents with more opportunities for economic advancement and improved quality of life. Their business wisdom and economic contributions not only reflect the vitality and potential of the local economy but also open up new spaces and possibilities for cooperation and exchange between regions. 5.2 Cultural Dissemination and Exchange The interaction of the Jing ethnic group in the China-Vietnam border area has not only had significant economic impacts but also played a constructive role in cultural dissemination and exchange, manifested in several aspects:Through their rich cultural traditions and artistic expressions, the Jing people have spread the unique cultural charm of southern China to Vietnam and other surrounding regions. They showcase Chinese aesthetics and values through forms such as traditional arts like singing, dancing, handicraft production, and festival celebrations, promoting cultural diversity and prosperity in the region.Cultural exchange extends beyond traditional artistic performances to include language exchanges and cultural festivals. In the China-Vietnam border area, the Jing people facilitate www.scholink.org/ojs/index.php/assc Advances in Social Science and Culture Vol. 6 No. 4, 2024 8 Published by SCHOLINK INC. Han-Vietnamese language exchange and learning, promoting linguistic understanding and cultural exchange between the two countries' populations. This language exchange not only enhances the language abilities of local residents but also deepens mutual cultural awareness and friendship.Furthermore, the cultural festivals and traditional customs of the Jing people spread and shared in the China-Vietnam border area serve as important bonds for harmonious coexistence in local communities. Through traditional festivals such as the Spring Festival and Qingming Festival, they not only promote Chinese traditional culture but also integrate with local Vietnamese cultural characteristics, fostering cultural understanding and sharing between the two countries' populations.In conclusion, the cultural dissemination and exchange of the Jing ethnic group in the China-Vietnam border area enrich the cultural content and lifestyles of the region, promoting cultural exchange and understanding among ethnic groups. Through their efforts and participation, the China-Vietnam border area not only exemplifies cultural diversity and vitality but also provides a beneficial model and practice for international cultural exchange and cooperation. 6. Conclusion This paper has provided an in-depth analysis and discussion on the impact and development trends of the cross-border interaction of the Jing ethnic group in the China-Vietnam border area. The following conclusions can be drawn:Firstly, as an important ethnic group in the China-Vietnam border area, the cross-border interaction of the Jing people not only significantly promotes economic development but also has profound impacts in cultural, educational, and social interaction fields. Through promoting economic integration and expanding cultural dissemination, the Jing people have actively contributed to the development of regional economy and maintenance of cultural diversity.Secondly, with the development of information technology and the popularity of social media, the cross-border interaction of the Jing people exhibits new trends in diversity and digitization. Through digital platforms and virtual communities, the Jing people can more widely disseminate and showcase their cultural characteristics, enhancing cultural exchange and interaction within and outside the region.Furthermore, education and talent development are crucial for the future development of the Jing people. By improving education quality and expanding educational resources, the Jing people can better cultivate a new generation of talents, injecting new impetus into regional economic transformation and social development.Lastly, environmental protection and sustainable development are critical issues for the cross-border interaction of the Jing people. The Jing people should actively participate in and promote practices of ecological environment protection, adopt environmentally friendly production and lifestyles, promote the restoration and sustainable development of regional ecosystems.In summary, the cross-border interaction of the Jing ethnic group in the China-Vietnam border area not only enriches cultural content and economic vitality but also carries the important mission of regional sustainable development. In the future, the Jing people will continue to play a positive role in multiple fields, contributing to the peace, stability, and prosperity of the China-Vietnam border area. www.scholink.org/ojs/index.php/assc Advances in Social Science and Culture Vol. 6 No. 4, 2024 9 Published by SCHOLINK INC. References Barabantseva, E., & Caroline, G. (2019). Representations and regulations of marriage migration from Russia and Vietnam in the People's Republic of China." The Journal of Asian Studies, 78(2), 285-308. https://doi.org/10.1017/S002191181900010X Bekkevold, J. I. (2020). The international politics of economic reforms in China, Vietnam, and Laos." The socialist market economy in Asia: Development in China, Vietnam and Laos, 27-68. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-15-6248-8_2 Ma, M. Y. (2023). Ritual and Empathy: On Cross-border Spring Festival Galas Jointly Held by China and Southeast Asian Countries—Taking 2023 China-Vietnam Cross-border Spring Festival Gala themed “Establishing A Deep Friendship and Working Together for Common Development” as an Example." Journal of Interdisciplinary Insights, 1(1), 69-73. Qian, J. X., Yang, X. H., & Tang, X. Q. (2023). "Thinking through the everywhereness of borders: mobile borders, everyday practices, and state logics in Southwest China." Eurasian Geography and Economic, 1-28. https://doi.org/10.1080/15387216.2023.2211594 Yi, Q. F. (2018). The mountain is high, and the emperor is far away: States and smuggling networks at the Sino-Vietnamese border. Asian Perspective, 42(4), 551-573. https://doi.org/10.1353/apr.2018.0025 Yu, J. et al. (2020). Vietnamese female sex workers in rural cross-border areas of Guangxi, China: migration and HIV/STI risk behaviors. AIDS care, 32(12), 1515-1523. https://doi.org/10.1080/09540121.2020.1719968 Zhang, J. (2018). Permissive Politics and Entrepreneurial Transgression in a Chinese Border Town. Sojourn: Journal of Social Issues in Southeast Asia, 33(3), 576-601. https://doi.org/10.1355/sj33-3c Zhang, M. L., & Jaume, G. (2022). Cultural boundaries and ethnic representation in cross-border tourism destinations. Routledge Handbook of Borders and Tourism. Routledge, 161-173. https://doi.org/10.4324/9781003038993-15 2.1 Overview of the Jing Ethnic Group 2.2 Economic Features and Socio-Cultural Aspects 2.3 Distribution and Characteristics of the Jing P 3.1 Origin and Historical Evolution 3.2 Cultural Traditions and Values 3.3 Social Status of the Jing Ethnic Group in the 4.1 Trade and Economic Exchange 4.2 Cultural Exchange and Education 4.3 Social Interaction and Collaboration 5.1 Impact on Local Economy 5.2 Cultural Dissemination and Exchange