South Korean companies are maintaining their status as the largest foreign investors in Vietnam, with Dong Nai emerging as a key investment hub. With over $100 billion in South Korean capital invested across Vietnam, Dong Nai has created more than 170,000 jobs, primarily in manufacturing and logistics.
According to Vietnamese economic media outlet cafef on October 18, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Dong Nai authorities, in collaboration with the South Korean Embassy in Vietnam, held the '2026 Meeting Korea' event on October 15 to discuss expanding South Korean investments and cooperation in advanced industries. More than 300 government officials and business representatives from both countries attended the event.
South Korea is currently the largest investor in Vietnam. Ngo Le Van, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, stated at the event that South Korea's cumulative investment amounts to approximately $102.7 billion across 10,598 projects. South Korea is also Vietnam's third-largest trading partner, with trade between the two countries rapidly expanding. From January to August this year, trade reached $82 billion, marking the highest level for that period. The two nations aim to surpass $100 billion in annual trade for the first time this year and increase it to $150 billion by 2030.
Dong Nai, located near Ho Chi Minh City, is a focal point for South Korean investments. Currently, 51 countries and regions have invested a total of $47.1 billion in approximately 2,304 projects in Dong Nai. Among these, South Korea leads with 469 projects and over $8.37 billion in registered investment. South Korean companies are engaged in various sectors, including manufacturing, parts production, and warehousing, contributing to job creation and technology transfer in the region.
Bui Tan Duc, Deputy Secretary of the Dong Nai Provincial Party Committee, emphasized at the event that the active business activities of South Korean companies in Dong Nai have significantly contributed to economic growth, job creation, technology transfer, and enhanced production capacity, as well as international economic integration.
The region's transportation and logistics infrastructure is a key factor in Dong Nai's appeal as a new investment destination. Dong Nai connects the southeastern industrial belt and international markets, equipped with five modes of transportation: road, air, rail, maritime, and inland waterways. Long Thanh International Airport and ten highway projects at various stages of development are also considered major infrastructure assets in the area.
Dong Nai authorities are promoting the development of eco-friendly smart cities, advanced industries, and aviation economies based on these advantageous conditions. They plan to attract new investments from South Korean companies in advanced manufacturing, supporting industries, logistics, and aviation-related services while encouraging existing companies to expand their operations and transfer technology.
Lee Mi-yeon, South Korea's ambassador to Vietnam, described Dong Nai as a representative region showcasing South Korean companies' overseas investment activities during the event on the 15th. She expressed hope for expanded investments in eco-friendly advanced components and materials, smart logistics, smart cities, critical minerals, and the defense industry.
The Vietnamese government is also broadening its cooperation with South Korea. Deputy Minister Ngo Le Van identified artificial intelligence (AI), semiconductors, smart infrastructure, and clean energy as priority areas for attracting high-value investments. He also outlined plans to reform the growth model focusing on science, technology, innovation, and skilled workforce development.
However, the stability of regulations remains a key challenge in the process of expanding South Korean investments. The ambassador noted that Vietnam is reforming regulations related to foreign investment, real estate, tax administration, and environmental issues, calling for predictability and consistent enforcement of investment policies. Dong Nai authorities also expressed their commitment to addressing challenges faced by South Korean companies and supporting long-term investments.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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