Chungcheongbuk has a population of approximately 1.6 million and stands as one of South Korea's most rapidly advancing high-tech industrial manufacturing hubs, with a GRDP of approximately USD 57.5 billion. The province is strategically positioned as the national nerve center for three flagship industries: nation-leading manufacturing of rechargeable and next-generation energy batteries, high-quality semiconductor chips, and the biopharmaceutical-cosmetics industry. Furthermore, leveraging its central geographical advantage that connects South Korea's entire vital transportation network, the locality holds outstanding strengths in domestic logistics and the development of modern high-tech agricultural models.
Former Chairman of HCMC Phan Van Mai and Chungcheongbuk Governor Kim Young Hwan at the MOU signing ceremony. - Photo: HCMC Web Portal
Cooperation between the two localities has achieved many substantive milestones through high-level economic forums, notably highlighted by Chungcheongbuk Province's active participation in the 2024 Ho Chi Minh City Friendship Dialogue under the theme of "Industrial Transformation." Through bilateral visits, leaders of both sides have institutionalized Memorandums of Understanding on connecting business associations, promoting multi-sectoral trade, and sharing urban management experience. Concurrently, people-to-people exchanges have been actively promoted through ecotourism campaigns and festivals showcasing Chungcheongbuk’s unique cultural heritage in Vietnam.
Looking toward the future, particularly within the framework of the 3rd Ho Chi Minh City Friendship Dialogue in 2026 (FD 2026), the City is widening its corridors to attract direct investment (FDI) and technology transfer from Chungcheongbuk partners into five priority sectors:
1. Semiconductors and Electronic Equipment: Attracting investment and connecting high-tech supply chains in the design, testing, and fabrication of semiconductor chips and microcircuits.
2. New Energy and Battery Technology: Partnering in the transfer of clean energy production and storage solutions, particularly rechargeable battery technology to serve the electric vehicle industry and green transportation.
3. Biotechnology and Biopharmaceuticals: Welcoming the province's leading pharmaceutical and biotech cosmetics conglomerates to invest in manufacturing facilities and research centers at the Saigon Hi-Tech Park (SHTP).
4. Smart Agriculture and Digital Farming: Applying automation and biotechnology in the production and processing of clean agricultural goods, while optimizing international agricultural supply chains.
5. Smart Logistics and Urban Planning: Exchanging solutions in warehousing management, cargo transit, and the design of integrated sustainable industrial urban architectures.