In modern Vietnam, video games and academic pressures have caused the popularity of traditional games like Búng bò to wane. However, there is a growing movement to preserve these folk traditions as part of Vietnam's intangible cultural heritage.
If you travel through the rural villages of Vietnam, particularly in the Red River Delta, and ask about "Buong bo," you might get a few confused looks. However, mention (pronounced Boong Buh ), and you will likely spark instant recognition and perhaps a nostalgic smile.
"Buong bo" is a phonetic spelling of the Vietnamese phrase (which translates roughly to "flicking the cow" or "flicking the bull").