Hanoians rush to capture last moments of iconic building

The Hanoi Times — Hanoi authorities have recently announced plans to demolish the iconic 'Shark Jaw' building next to Hoan Kiem Lake as part of a major urban redevelopment project to restore the original landscape of Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc Square.

The move will enhance the public space and provide more recreational areas for the city's dwellers.

After demolition, the area will be transformed into a 12,000-square-meter public square that will fit in with the surrounding spaces. The development will have three underground levels, the first of which will be dedicated to cultural and commercial activities while the second and third will be used for parking.

Demolition is expected to be completed by April 30, and the above-ground plaza is scheduled for completion by September 2.

Historically, the area around Hoan Kiem Lake has seen significant changes. Originally a coconut plantation known as "Coconut Garden", the area was transformed during the French colonial period and renamed Place Négrier, becoming a site for the French to execute Vietnamese patriots.

In 1907, the Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc School was founded by prominent patriotic scholars such as Luong Van Can and Nguyen Quyen. The school marked an important milestone in Vietnam's educational history by introducing the Latin alphabet to replace the Sinographic script and offering free education, fostering a new spirit of patriotism.

After the August Revolution in 1945, the square was renamed Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc in honor of the school's role in the nation's intellectual and cultural awakening.

In the 1970s and 1980s, the area became an important transfer point, with a tram line connecting central Hanoi with suburbs such as Ha Dong and Yen Phu. In the 1980s, the tram station was replaced by the Bo Ho Department Store, the largest shopping center in Hanoi at the time.

In 1991, construction began on the "Shark Jaw" building, which was completed two years later and quickly became a distinctive feature of Hanoi's skyline. Over the years, Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc Square has become a vibrant gathering place, especially popular during events such as the New Year's Eve fireworks.

The decision to demolish the Shark Jaw building and restore the square was met with widespread public support.

As Hanoi residents bid farewell to this iconic structure, they remain hopeful for the completion of a revitalized square that will expand public spaces and provide greater cultural significance for future generations.

During a visit to Hoan Kiem Lake last weekend, Phan Hong Minh, a resident of Hanoi's Dong Da District, told The Hanoi Times that she wholeheartedly supports the demolition of the Shark Jaw building.

"This will open up more space around Hoan Kiem Lake and enhance the beauty of the area," she said.