On 17/4, Thanh Thao posted photos with Quang Dung on her personal page, taken during an outing with friends in the US. Previously, she also posted a photo with her arm around her colleague at her birthday party in Vietnam in March. Every time they meet, she states: "Quang Dung is an inseparable close friend." Many fans commented, admiring their relationship and considering their long-standing friendship a valuable asset in showbiz.

Thanh Thao, 49, and Quang Dung, 50, were contemporaries in music and a famous couple in the early 2000s. Both had hit songs and were among the top 10 most loved singers in Lan Song Xanh in 2003. Thanh Thao secured her place with the song 'Oi tinh yeu', while Quang Dung was known for hits like 'Vi do la em' and 'Con ta voi nong nan'.

Quang Dung and Thanh Thao captured a memorable photo during an outing with friends. *Photo: Courtesy of the artist*

Their romance began during a tour in Europe in 2002. On a bus from Germany to the Czech Republic on Christmas Eve, Quang Dung offered his jacket to Thanh Thao, who was feeling cold. According to Thanh Thao, this thoughtful gesture made her fond of the Quy Nhon-born singer. After returning to Vietnam, they continued their close relationship, which eventually developed into romance.

During their relationship, Quang Dung and Thanh Thao did not go public, instead quietly collaborating on music. They self-funded the production, recording, and release of their duet album 'Hoai niem dau yeu'. Subsequently, 'Vi ngot doi moi' (composed by Le Huu Ha) became the song synonymous with their names. The duet Thanh Thao - Quang Dung grew popular, performing together on various stages. Their natural and affectionate interactions attracted a large fanbase. "At that time, audiences eagerly rushed to vote for this song in the final stages of the Lan Song Xanh charts," Thanh Thao recalled.

Reflecting on his shift from romantic ballads to pop music, collaborating with Thanh Thao, Quang Dung said he transformed his style, feeling youthful and energetic.

Thanh Thao - Quang Dung performing "Vi ngot doi moi" at Lan Song Xanh 2004. *Video: YouTube Phuong Nam Phim*

After four years together, they decided to part ways romantically but remain friends. According to Thanh Thao, this was a difficult but necessary choice to maintain mutual respect rather than letting their affection fade. After their breakup, they remained compatible colleagues on stage and close friends in life.

They met frequently due to their shared profession and being part of a close-knit group of colleagues including Dam Vinh Hung, Hong Ngoc, and My Tam. The two singers often gathered with friends in Vietnam or the US during tours or holidays. Quang Dung stated he always appreciated Thanh Thao's enthusiasm, frankness, her ability to foster friendships, and her willingness to help others. "Her approachability and sociability make me feel comfortable and at ease whenever we meet," he said.

Thanh Thao, Quang Dung alongside Dam Vinh Hung - My Tam, Lam Truong - Phuong Thanh, Dan Truong - Cam Ly, Hong Ngoc - Tuan Hung performing "Ho doi dap" at Lan Song Xanh 2003. *Video: YouTube Phuong Nam Phim*

Despite their contrasting personalities, with Thanh Thao being fiery and Quang Dung calm, they share similar life philosophies and musical perspectives. Leveraging her strong communication skills, Thanh Thao often supported Quang Dung at events, acting as an MC and hosting guests for his album launch of 'Nhung gi con lai' (2014). Quang Dung also encouraged his colleague to produce music. He encouraged the "doll singer" to sing classic songs and helped her edit the album 'Xuan, ha, thu, dong'. Each made efforts to arrange their schedules to support each other's solo live shows.

For nearly 20 years, the male singer has been a source of emotional support, helping his colleague remain calm through challenges. When facing relationship controversies, Quang Dung was Thanh Thao's confidant. When she decided to pursue her singing career in the US, she also sought advice from her ex-partner. The singer stated she trusted him with her joys and sorrows, knowing he was discreet and a good listener. After years of witnessing his colleague's ups and downs, Quang Dung said: "I am happy to see Thanh Thao has a peaceful family life now."

Thanh Thao, Quang Dung performing "Loi cuoi cho em". *Video: Ben Thanh audio*

The two close friends are always present for each other's important milestones. Quang Dung once flew to the US to attend Thanh Thao's daughter's one-month celebration. Last year, the female singer also put aside work to return to Vietnam for Quang Dung's mother's funeral. According to the Quy Nhon-born singer, his mother always cherished Thanh Thao, treating her like a daughter. Every time she returns to Vietnam, she often visits his home to spend time and share meals.

Speaking about their current relationship, Thanh Thao summarized it as "soulmates": "Quang Dung is one of the rare people who understands my thoughts without many words. Love can come and go, but being soulmates is a choice to keep each other through understanding and peace."

Thanh Thao currently lives with businessman Tom Han in the US and has one daughter, eight years old. Meanwhile, Quang Dung remains single after divorcing Miss Jennifer Pham. He has one son who is 18 this year.

Hoang Dung