Why do Vietnamese still call Ho Chi Minh Saigon?

Saigon: A City’s Enduring Echo

In the heart of bustling Ho Chi Minh City, a faint whisper of the past lingers—the familiar moniker, Saigon. Despite the city’s official renaming in 1976 in honor of its beloved revolutionary leader, Ho Chi Minh, the old name persists, etched into the fabric of daily life.

This dual nomenclature is a testament to the city’s rich history and the enduring allure of a shorter, more easily pronounced name.

Echoes of War and Revolution

Saigon, derived from the Khmer word “Sai Gon” meaning “cottonwood tree forest,” served as the capital of South Vietnam during the Vietnam War. It became a symbol of both the conflict and the U.S. military presence.

After the war ended in 1975, the victorious communist government renamed the city Ho Chi Minh City to commemorate the revolutionary leader who played a pivotal role in Vietnam’s independence.

Comfort and Convenience

Despite the official name change, Saigon remains widely used by locals and tourists alike. Its shorter, more phonetically accessible form makes it easier to utter and remember.

For many Vietnamese, Saigon evokes a sense of familiarity and nostalgia. It is the name they grew up with and the one that resonates with their daily lives.

A City Bound by Two Names

The coexistence of Ho Chi Minh City and Saigon reflects the city’s multifaceted identity. It is a modern metropolis that embraces both its revolutionary past and its enduring legacy as a cultural hub.

The dual naming serves as a reminder that cities are not merely geographical entities but also living organisms that evolve over time. They carry the weight of history and the aspirations of their inhabitants.

So, while Ho Chi Minh City may be the official name, the echo of Saigon continues to reverberate in the heart of the city. It is a testament to the enduring power of language and the significance of names in shaping the collective memory of a place.