Ha Noi looks to Seoul’s Han River model for Red River revitalization

The Vice Chairman made the point at the Ha Noi–Seoul Urban Policy Exchange Forum on December 5 in Ha Noi.

Nguyen noted that Ha Noi and Viet Nam as a whole are entering a new phase of development that requires faster reforms and stronger institutional capacity so the capital can keep pace with leading cities in the region and beyond. In this context, he stressed that cooperation between Viet Nam and South Korea—particularly between their capitals—holds special significance, supported by shared cultural connections and similar development ambitions.

According to Nguyen, Ha Noi will place ecological restoration, innovation and improved living standards at the center of its Red River planning.

"The plan will create a new engine of growth while enhancing the city's transport network," he said.

The city is also prioritizing digital transformation, including the establishment of integrated data platforms and innovation hubs to move toward a smart and sustainable urban model. He expressed confidence that Seoul's proven experience would help Hanoi pursue these goals more effectively.

Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon commended Ha Noi's progress and said the city is well positioned for major breakthroughs.

He emphasized that the forum focuses on two areas where Seoul has deep expertise and Hanoi has strategic priorities: river planning and restoration, and smart-city development.

"The successful revival of the Han River significantly improved Seoul's urban landscape and residents' quality of life, and contributed to South Korea's overall growth. Similar success is achievable for the Red River," he said.

Oh also pointed to the rapid expansion of information technology and digital transformation in everyday life, adding that the exchange of smart-city solutions and digital development strategies is timely and beneficial for both capitals.

South Korean Ambassador to Viet Nam Choi Young-san underscored the robust growth of bilateral cooperation over the past three decades. He said the relationship between Ha Noi and Seoul exemplifies active and effective collaboration, with frequent exchanges and expanding partnerships. The ambassador expressed hope that the forum would enable deeper discussion on advanced urban technologies and major river-planning strategies, opening new opportunities for shared prosperity.

During the event, officials, experts and urban planners from both capitals engaged in vibrant discussions on transportation planning, digital technologies and city management—setting a stronger foundation for future cooperation between Ha Noi and Seoul.

Lessons from Seoul’s Han River for Ha Noi’s Red River Development 

The Han River in Seoul and the Red River in Ha Noi are two iconic rivers of East Asia, both deeply tied to the history, culture and urban development of their capitals. Despite differences in size, geography, and management, the two rivers share important roles in shaping their cities’ identities and growth.

The Han River is widely regarded as one of the world’s most successful urban riverfront transformations. Seoul turned a once-polluted, flood-prone waterway into vibrant public spaces that define the city’s identity. As Ha Noi advances plans for the Red River zoning and riverfront redevelopment, the Han River experience offers several valuable lessons.

The Han River model demonstrates that successful riverfront development requires clear long-term planning, strong flood control, ecological restoration, high-quality public space, and citizen-centered design. Ha Noi’s Red River has immense potential to become a cultural, ecological, and economic axis of the capital—if developed with the right priorities and careful management./.