Though we had only two hours to visit Siheung — a satellite city south of Seoul, Korea but journalist Nhat Hoa, Vice President of the Journalists’ Association of Vietnam Television, and other international reporters, were deeply impressed by how such a small city could transform itself into a model of ecological development and innovation and, above all, by the resolute yet humane spirit of its leaders.
The first impression was the vast, serene expanse of blue water stretching to the horizon. Sihwa Lake, the largest artificial lake in Korea, was created by building a dam in 1994. Originally intended for irrigation, flood control, and agricultural development, the lake’s water circulation was blocked, and it became a dumping ground for industrial and household waste. Within a few years, Sihwa became known as the “dead lake”. Fish perished, foul odors spread, and residents turned their backs on the area.
Sihwa Lake now spans around 43.8 km², vast and clean once more.
To restore it, the revival began by re-opening the sluice gates to allow the seawater to flow naturally, and carry out the waste. A tidal power plant was built, not only generating clean electricity but also enhancing water circulation. Artificial wetlands were created to biologically filter the water , and the ecosystem was gradually restored.
Once called a “dead lake”, it now welcomes migratory birds and the return of plant and animal species thought to be gone. Standing on one of the lake’s bridges, visitors can watch wild ducks and seagulls glide across the water. In other seasons, rare species such as spoonbills and white storks come to rest on the modern eco-tourism island that now glows with vitality over a once-polluted past.
Photos of the lake and artificial island from construction to completion.
A notable site in the lake area is Geobukseom — Turtle Island, a modern complex emerging at the lake’s center. Viewed from above, its architecture resembles a turtle gliding through the water — a symbol of endurance and steadfastness.
International journalists listen to the story of the lake’s transformation from a dead lake to a green lake.
During a brief session at the conference center, journalist Nhat Hoa and the group of international reporters listened as city leaders shared Siheung’s vision: development based on three pillars — ecology, technology, and quality of life.
They did not attempt to hide their city’s troubled past, but what impressed me most was their forward thinking: urban planning focused on green and smart development; investing in the bio-industry, aiming to become a “Bio Steel Mill” — playing a role for biotech similar to what POSCO once did for Korea’s steel industry; building schools, hospitals, and research centers — creating a network between education, healthcare, and enterprises. Not Seoul, not Busan, but Siheung — a small town with big dreams. And their journey began not with money, but with vision, determination, and unwavering effort.
Reporters standing on the bridge extending into the lake.
From the story of Sihwa Lake, journalist Nhat Hoa reflected on the message it sends to cities in Vietnam. Many provincial and district-level cities in Vietnam have favorable locations — near rivers, coastlines, or close to major urban centers. But without the ability to leverage local strengths and the perseverance to overcome limitations, potential will remain dormant.
Siheung was not wealthy from the start. They chose to take steady steps: clean the lake, restore every square meter of land, then develop tourism, technology, and urban life. That is a path that many Vietnamese cities could follow — not by copying, but by embracing a mindset: know who you are, choose the right goals, and pursue them to the end.
Journalist Nhat Hoa, Vice President of the Journalists’ Association of Vietnam Television, is impressed by the city of Siheung.
“A vast artificial lake, a city I had never heard of, suddenly became a place I did not want to leave so soon. Not because of the scenery, but because of the quiet belief in what is possible, and the perseverance of those who have dedicated themselves to this city for over 20 years — step by step cleaning a lake, step by step renewing a vision”, said journalist Nhat Hoa.
