The cooperative relationship between Hai Phong City and South Korean partners and localities has long been a typical model of effective economic cohesion between Vietnam and the "Land of the Morning Calm". In the context of the city's strong transformation towards a green and digital economy, the business trip of Hai Phong's high-level delegation to South Korea from May 31 to June 6, 2026, has opened promising new chapters. The trip was not merely an annual investment promotion activity but also carried strategic significance in positioning Hai Phong as a regional high-tech hub.
Impressions from an Intensive and Substantive Working Itinerary
Under the leadership of Do Thanh Trung, Vice Secretary of the City Party Committee and Chairman of the City People's Committee, the delegation—including leaders of key departments such as the Economic Zone Management Authority, Department of Foreign Affairs, and Department of Finance—carried out an "intensive, focused, and targeted" working program in South Korea.
During the week-long visit, the delegation organized and participated in a series of large-scale investment promotion forums and conferences. Most notable were the Green Production Value Chain Cooperation Forum, which attracted nearly 100 businesses, and the Hai Phong - South Korea Investment Promotion Conference 2026, with the participation of nearly 200 leading South Korean corporations. At these forums, the message of "Hai Phong ready to lead in digitalization and carbon data management" was widely spread, affirming the city's commitment to making ESG (Environmental – Social – Governance) indicators the standard benchmark for new-generation industrial zones.
Breakthrough Results: Strategic Figures and Agreements
The success of the business trip was materialized by results exceeding expectations. The city awarded 03 new Investment Registration Certificates with a total capital of 65 million USD for the following projects: Bumhan Vina Heavy Industry Factory ($40 million), Dain Vina Toy Production ($5 million), and SunWoo Vina ($20 million).
Alongside direct capital flows, 08 Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) were signed, opening prospects for deep cooperation in future technology sectors:
- AI and Semiconductor Ecosystem: An agreement between the Economic Zone Management Authority and partners such as KTNF, Furiosa AI, and G-Group to research the implementation of AI infrastructure, chip design, and training of high-quality semiconductor human resources.
- Cloud Computing and Digital Infrastructure: Working with Megazone Cloud – South Korea's No. 1 Cloud provider – to provide industry-applied AI solutions and digital infrastructure for industrial zones in Hai Phong.
- Smart Water Management: The MOU with K-Water marks a significant step forward as this partner agreed to support a comprehensive survey of the city's river and water supply systems using AI and Digital Twin technology to prevent saltwater intrusion and protect sustainable water sources.
Expectations from Technology "Giants"
The business trip also strengthened ties with traditional partners that have built Hai Phong's brand, such as LG and SK.
For LG Group, the Chairman of the City People's Committee highly appreciated the production ecosystem the group has built over the past 10 years. Notably, LG revealed plans to invest an additional 4.5 billion USD in Hai Phong between now and 2035. A notable highlight is the city's proposal for LG to expand into Industrial Robots and Service Robots (LG Robotics) to leverage local high-tech human resources and the existing satellite ecosystem.
Regarding SK Group, the delegation surveyed the Ecovance high-tech biodegradable material production plant (investment capital of $500 million), which is preparing for trial operation in early 2026. The city expects SK to continue expanding into areas such as energy storage batteries, new materials, and clean energy (Hydrogen, LNG) following the Net Zero trend.
Significance and Future Vision
The successful business trip has further tightened the friendship and trust between Hai Phong and South Korean investors. The greatest significance of the trip is not just the million-dollar figures but the change in Hai Phong's position in the global supply chain. From an assembly destination, Hai Phong is rising to become a hub for R&D centers, semiconductor design, and smart manufacturing.
Expectations for the post-trip phase are immense. The city has directed departments to maintain regular connections to realize the agreed contents. Cooperation with localities and the Korea International Trade Association (KITA) (with over 70,000 members) will continue to serve as a bridge to encourage small and medium-sized South Korean enterprises to research and invest in the city.
It can be affirmed that with the active support of the Vietnamese Embassy in South Korea and high political determination, Hai Phong is confidently creating a "new development space". There, South Korean capital and technology will continue to be an important driving force for the Port City to not only grow in numbers but also achieve sustainability, greening, and modernization, worthy of being the most successful destination for South Korean investors in Vietnam.