"If I have my own students in the future, I will teach them about the culture of Chinese calligraphy, just like Professor Liu," Kim says.

An, who plans to return to Vietnam after completing his studies, says he also wants to continue to practice calligraphy.

"Calligraphy has become a part of me," An says. "Whenever I see Chinese calligraphy from different dynasties, and on sculptures and at historical sites, I'm very impressed by the vastness and depth of Chinese culture."

Cao Chenyuan, Chang Aohan and Yu Jia'ao contributed to this story.

Contact the writer at caihong@chinadaily.com.cn