Hanoi begins demolition of iconic 'Shark Jaw' building near Hoan Kiem Lake

The Shark Jaw building, located on Dinh Tien Hoang Street, overlooks Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc Square beside Hoan Kiem Lake.

Known for its sharp-angled roof and long-time presence in the city center, the commercial center has drawn mixed views over the years.

Excavators and construction crews were deployed overnight to start dismantling the signage and façade.

The demolition is being handled by a contractor selected through a bidding process overseen by the Hoan Kiem District People's Committee.

Officials said the process will take about 20 days.

Safety and environmental measures are in place to protect nearby buildings and ensure hygiene in the busy square, which sees heavy pedestrian and vehicle traffic.

Preparations for the demolition began on May 25, when barriers were erected around the site.

On May 16, city leaders approved a two-phase plan to revamp Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc Square after receiving approval from the Hanoi People's Committee.

The first phase includes removing the Shark Jaw building, relocating an electrical substation currently housed on the building's first floor, and renovating nearby structures such as the Hapro building at 7-9 Dinh Tien Hoang Street and the lakeside Thuy Ta restaurant.

Authorities also plan to reorganize traffic along Dinh Tien Hoang Street to reduce congestion and convert the area into a more pedestrian-friendly zone supporting tourism and public gatherings.

The second phase will focus on building underground space beneath the square, including the renovation of surrounding façades and upgrades to public infrastructure. These changes will align with Hoan Kiem Lake's designation as a special national relic.

City leaders said removing the Shark Jaw building will allow for an expansion of the square, creating an open public area suitable for major cultural and national events.

At a March 5 meeting, Hanoi authorities approved the concept and design for the revamped square, which includes the demolition of the building and new underground development.

Current plans propose three basement levels, with the first reserved for cultural and commercial activities and the second and third for parking.

Officials said the design could also be adapted for dual use.

Originally, the city aimed to complete the demolition by April 30, but the timeline was later pushed to late May.

Built in 1990 and completed in 1993, the Shark Jaw building had housed cafés, restaurants, and retail shops.

City officials said the transformation of the square will reflect Hanoi's broader effort to improve the urban landscape while balancing development with historical preservation.