Hanoi, South Korea forge stronger innovation links
Hanoi is particularly interested in expanding smart solutions and building infrastructure for electric vehicles in line with national strategies.
THE HANOI TIMES — Hanoi will continue to expand cooperation with South Korean corporations and enterprises, with a particular focus on science and technology, digital transformation, and innovation.
The commitment was reinforced during General Secretary To Lam’s state visit to South Korea from August 10 to 13. Joining the high-level delegation, Chairman of the Hanoi People’s Committee Tran Sy Thanh attended official events and conducted bilateral meetings with Korean localities and partners to advance practical collaboration in key sectors.
Applying smart tech in urban traffic management
On August 13, during discussions with Lotte Group, the Hanoi delegation exchanged experiences and models on applying technology in the development and management of high-capacity fast-charging stations in South Korea.
The Hanoi delegation during a meeting with Lotte Group. Photos: The Hanoi Times
Thanh outlined Vietnam’s and Hanoi’s policy directions for green and smart transport, expressing interest in learning from South Korea’s experience in infrastructure development and charging station management.
According to the city’s mayor, as the Vietnamese Government pushes forward policies to limit fossil-fuel vehicles and transition to environmentally friendly transport, Hanoi is particularly interested in expanding smart solutions and building infrastructure for electric vehicles in line with national policies and support mechanisms.
Oh Young-sik, CEO of EVSIS, a subsidiary of Lotte Innovate, said the company plans to expand its focus on Vietnam’s EV charging infrastructure market. EVSIS is developing PLC modem charging technology using “K-VAS” and an anti-theft system for charging cables. With its technological strengths and expertise, EVSIS believes it can provide breakthrough charging solutions and help build an eco-friendly mobility ecosystem in Vietnam.
Hanoi delegation learns about EV battery-swapping operations with LG Group.
On August 11, the Hanoi delegation met with LG Group to learn about battery swapping models and the use of smart technology in operating such stations. Kang Chang Beom, Chief Strategy Officer of LG Energy Solution, introduced the company’s innovative EV solutions, highlighting its Battery Swapping Station (BSS) and Battery Management Total Solution (BMTS), an AI-driven platform for real-time monitoring of the entire battery lifecycle. Chairman Thanh praised these solutions for prioritizing user convenience and safety.
Acknowledging the strong potential of Vietnam’s EV market, he proposed that LG Energy Solution work closely with Hanoi and relevant ministries to develop a nationwide charging station network and standardize EV batteries in line with Vietnamese law and practical needs.
Taking specific steps
On August 11, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed between the Hanoi People’s Committee and One Law Partners on investment planning and development of Hoa Lac Hi-Tech Park, supporting the implementation of Resolution 57-NQ/TW (focusing on innovation and digital transformation) and Resolution 68-NQ/TW on developing the private sector.
MoU singing ceremony between Hanoi People's Committee and One Law Partners.
At the signing ceremony, Thanh affirmed that based on strong local-level cooperation and friendship, Hanoi is eager to expand ties with South Korean partners across potential sectors.
“The city will create the most favorable conditions for South Korean businesses to explore investment opportunities, share expertise, and contribute to the development of Hoa Lac Hi-tech Park in line with Hanoi’s strategic plans,” he noted.
The delegation also met with the Korea Real Estate Board (REB) to discuss smart city development and digital transformation in property data management.
Dr. Geunyong Kim, CEO of REB, presented the organization’s operational model, development plans, and international cooperation projects, expressing interest in expanding collaboration with Hanoi. REB is preparing, with KOICA, to continue an ODA project in Vietnam to improve the national real estate price database system, enhance pricing processes, and increase market transparency. Both sides agreed on future cooperation directions.
The Vietnam-Korea Economic Forum on August 12.
Within the framework of the Vietnam–Korea Economic Forum under the theme “Cooperation in Building Production Chains in the New Era,” held in Seoul on August 12, Chairman Thanh and the Hanoi delegation attended and signed a cooperation agreement with One Law Partners, witnessed by General Secretary To Lam and the South Korean Prime Minister. The success of the forum reaffirmed the close, mutually beneficial partnership between Vietnam and South Korea.
In addition, the delegation held side meetings with young Vietnamese professionals in semiconductors and electronics working in Korea and visited high-tech zones and startup innovation centers to gain practical insights into advanced development models.
