The heart of Hanoi is set to receive a significant facelift with the upcoming construction of Km0 and the planned renovation of public spaces around Hoan Kiem Lake. This initiative aims to enhance community interaction and celebrate the city’s rich cultural history.
Scheduled for execution from April to October 2025, the Km0 project will mark a pivotal milestone in the city's urban landscape. The focal point of the Km0 design will represent Hanoi, radiating grooves that symbolize the 63 provinces and cities of Vietnam. This plan not only demonstrates architectural innovation but also manifests a deep respect for the capital’s heritage.
The Km0 itself will feature a square copper plate measuring 2020x2020mm, with a thickness of 60mm, centrally located in the Ly Thai To flower garden. Within this plaque, a central square measuring 440x440mm symbolizes Hanoi, from which grooves extend outward. This intricate design includes 31 raised and 31 sunken grooves that collectively highlight the essence of Vietnam's administrative divisions, forming a visual homage to the nation’s identity.
According to local reports, the centerpiece will also include a hollow 400mm diameter circle, surrounded by four embossed sculptures featuring dragon motifs inspired by the Ly Dynasty. Furthermore, a floor-mounted LED lighting system will enhance the aesthetic and functionality of the installation, providing dynamic visual displays corresponding to various events. A corresponding software application will facilitate public engagement by providing information about the Km0 project and cultural insights into Hanoi.
The preparations for Km0 are part of a broader plan to renovate the surrounding area, which also includes the dismantling of the "Shark Jaw" building. Construction of this building spanned from 1991 to 1993, and it quickly became an iconic feature of the landscape. However, with urban density rapidly increasing—Hanoi now supports nearly 10 million residents, far exceeding its original planning for 250,000—the necessity for more open public spaces has never been more critical.
On March 19, 2025, the Hoan Kiem District People’s Committee officially announced the planning details for the public space surrounding the lake, earmarking approximately 2.14 hectares to create a more accessible and pleasant environment for both locals and tourists.
"The demolition of the Shark Jaw building is reasonable for creating a more valuable space around it," said Pham Thi Huong, a long-time resident of Hoan Kiem, expressing mixed feelings about the change but ultimately supporting the vision for a transformed public area. "It has played a significant role in my life; nonetheless, wider spaces are essential for community engagement."
Experts back this sentiment, with Phan Dang Son, Chairman of the Vietnam Architects Association, discussing the disconnect between the urban layout and the needs of residents. "The planning of Hoan Kiem Lake has been rather chaotic, with many buildings encroaching too closely. This situation makes the space feel increasingly cramped and overwhelmingly dense." He emphasized the importance of coordinated urban planning that accommodates both historical preservation and modern needs.
In fact, Nguyen Quoc Tuan, another architect, highlighted the journey of Hoan Kiem’s landscape over the years, stating, "Urban areas must change harmoniously between the old and new, between conservation and development." His reflections focus on the need to adapt urban planning to better serve the shifting dynamics of the population while respecting the city's history and identity.
The collaboration of various stakeholders, including city planners, architects, and community members, aims to pave the way for a more structured and cohesive development approach around Hoan Kiem. This will involve strategically relocating other buildings and enhancing the natural scenery surrounding the lake, ensuring that it remains a lush respite amid the urban sprawl.
"Our proposed planning aims to create modern public spaces while still preserving the area's cultural identity," explained Pham Tuan Long, the Chairman of Hoan Kiem District. With this comprehensive outlook, authorities are poised to convert previously congested areas into vibrant gathering spots where individuals can enjoy leisure and cultural activities.
A key component of the planning involves integrating underground space into the redesign. This strategy is seen as a solution to land scarcity while providing enhanced access to public transport routes. The connection of the C9 station of urban railway line 2 with Dong Kinh - Nghia Thuc Square promises to turn the site into a traffic hub, offering greater convenience for both locals and visitors.
Beyond traffic facilitation, this approach aligns with global movements toward more sustainable urban developments. Incorporating underground facilities can create opportunities for urban life while maintaining an expansive ground-level area, inviting pedestrians to enjoy the beauty of Hanoi without the constraints of modern construction.
Three years ago, plans regarding the underground station sparked significant debate among residents about their feelings related to the Hoan Kiem space. These ongoing discussions underscore the importance of community input in realizing an environment that is not only functional but also imbued with cultural significance.
This newly proposed public space is envisioned to foster a healthier, more engaging atmosphere, free from the barriers presented by outdated constructions. Historic symbols of Hanoi—like the Turtle Tower and Ngoc Son Temple—can once again be enjoyed in their full glory, unobstructed by unsightly structures that do not align with the area’s narrative.
As Hanoi embarks on this journey, shedding parts of its past to embrace a fresh future filled with promise, the community remains cautiously optimistic. There might be some nostalgia and regret; however, when the planned areas around Hoan Kiem Lake evolve into welcoming havens that provide ample room for reflection and enjoyment, it will become clear that change is not about loss but rather a pathway to safeguarding legacy in a more sustainable and engaging way.
