Exploring the Impact of War and Refugees Through Miss Saigon and Literature

The upcoming exhibition titled "Exploring the Impact of War and Refugees Through Miss Saigon and Literature" will take place from May 1 to November 8, 2026, at the Waseda University International Literature Museum. This event aims to reflect on the ongoing issues of military conflicts and the challenges faced by refugees around the globe, particularly in light of the Vietnam War and the literature born from its aftermath.

As we mark half a century since the end of the Vietnam War in 1975, the world continues to grapple with military conflicts in regions such as Ukraine and the Middle East. These circumstances have resulted in a significant influx of refugees, presenting a pressing concern for the international community. The exhibition seeks to examine these contemporary issues through a historical lens, focusing on the Vietnam War and the cultural and literary expressions emerging from the experiences of refugees.

The Vietnam War, which began against the backdrop of the struggle for independence from French colonial rule, was marked by intense conflicts stemming from the division of North and South Vietnam and foreign interventions. Following the fall of Saigon, many individuals were forced to leave their homeland, becoming what is known as the "boat people". In the United States, particularly in California, vibrant refugee communities were formed, giving rise to new cultural identities and literary voices.

This exhibition will use the renowned musical "Miss Saigon" (1989) as a starting point to delve into this historical narrative. It will encompass the experiences of those in Saigon towards the end of the war, the conflicts between North and South Vietnam, and the ramifications of American intervention. Through this lens, the exhibition will illuminate the profound impact of war on personal lives and cultural expressions, showcasing the resulting Vietnamese literature that reflects the refugee experience.

Exhibition Details

- Dates: May 1, 2026 - November 8, 2026
- Opening Hours: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Closed On: Wednesdays and during summer break (August 3 - 19). Notably, the museum will be open on May 6, 13, 20, September 23, October 14, and 21. Please check for additional details online.
- Entry Fee: Free
- Organizer: Waseda University International Literature Museum

Exhibition Structure

1. History of the Vietnam War (Venue: Historical Museum)
This section will revisit the tumultuous history of the Vietnam War, the struggles for independence, the division of Vietnam, and the fierce battles due to American intervention. Even after the fall of Saigon, many citizens became "boat people" and migrated to various parts of the world. This segment will reflect on the hardships and memories etched by war and displacement.

2. Miss Saigon — Memories of War, Love, and Separation (Venue: International Literature Museum)
Here, we will explore the love and separation of young lovers against the backdrop of the Vietnam War. The narratives presented through the stage and characters will shed light on the scars and memories that war leaves on people's lives.

3. The World Illustrated by Refugee Literature (Venue: International Literature Museum)
This section will introduce literature authored by refugees born from the experiences of war and loss of homeland. Focusing on works inspired by the Vietnam War, visitors will encounter the memories of the past, experiences of displacement, and the journey towards new futures crafted by various writers.

This exhibition not only honors the past but also serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggles faced by individuals affected by war and conflict. It invites audiences to engage with the complex narratives that arise from such dire circumstances and to recognize the resilience and creativity of those who find ways to express their experiences through literature.