Hanoians rush to capture last moments of iconic building
The “Shark Jaw” building, a well-known landmark since its construction in 1993 located next to Hoan Kiem Lake, becomes a popular spot for photos and check-ins as people flock to capture memories before its demolition.
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.
The building becomes a popular photo destination for locals and tourists alike to capture memories before its removal. Photos: Duy Khanh/The Hanoi Times
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.
The "Shark Jaw" building in Hanoi will soon complete its historic mission.
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 restaurants inside the building offer great views of Hoan Kiem Lake.
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.
Phan Hong Minh (left) and her friends, all middle-aged, capture the landmark's current charm. Photo courtesy of Hong Minh
The spot remains a popular destination, attracting both young visitors...
...and families...
A child strikes a pose in front of the iconic building.
It will also become a cherished memory for international tourists visiting Hanoi during these days. Photo: Thu do Ha Noi - Vietnam Page
As this space evolves, it will forever hold a special place in the hearts of Hanoi residents, who are eagerly anticipating a greener and more visually stunning environment in the future.
