Vietnam
In short
Vietnam is a country located on the eastern edge of mainland Southeast Asia. It is a socialist state with a population exceeding 102 million people.
In plain words
It is a long, narrow country bordered by China, Laos, and Cambodia. The capital is Hanoi, and the biggest city is Ho Chi Minh City. Most people live near the coast or in fertile river deltas.
A simple example
A traveller visiting Vietnam might start in the busy streets of Ho Chi Minh City before heading north to the mountains near Hanoi.
Why it matters
It is one of the most populous nations in the world and a key player in Southeast Asian politics and trade. Its location along the South China Sea makes it central to regional maritime interests.
Easy to mix up
Do not confuse Vietnam with Viet Nam, which is simply the official formal name of the same country.