Do People in Vietnam Still Refer to Ho Chi Minh City as Saigon?
It seems to be a matter of personal preference whether people in Vietnam refer to Ho Chi Minh City as Saigon or not. The city has two names, reflecting the changing political and cultural history of Vietnam. While many find the shorter and more appealing name, Saigon, convenient, the official name, Ho Chi Minh City, still holds significant importance.
The Dual Names of the City
It is not unusual in Vietnam for cities to have two names. For instance, in Khanh Hoa province, several towns and district capitals have both local names and alternative names. Similarly, Ho Chi Minh City proudly carries both the official name Ho Chi Minh City and the popular, shorter name Saigon.
The preference for a name often depends on the context. Some people still use Saigon because it is a shorter and friendlier name to spell, while Ho Chi Minh City is the official name used in governmental and formal settings.
The Meaning Behind “Saigon”
Saigon holds two distinct meanings:
When people outside Ho Chi Minh City refer to Saigon, they mean the entire city, encompassing all its districts. When people in the suburban areas of Ho Chi Minh City say they are going to Saigon, they typically mean the city center or the downtown areas, such as Districts 1, 3, and 5.Informal and Formal Usage
Most people prefer to use the shorter and more informal name, Saigon. This is because it has been used for a long time and is easier to remember. However, the official name, Ho Chi Minh City, is still used in formal documentation and official communication.
Those who were born in Saigon before 1975 will sometimes use the name Ho Chi Minh City when the official document requires it. However, in everyday conversation, Saigon is the name most frequently used. Many citizens have a deep sentimental attachment to the name Saigon, linking it to a period of history before the political changes in 1975.
Cultural Significance
The name Saigon is deeply rooted in the local culture and experiences of the people. Numerous songs and cultural references reflect the nostalgia associated with Saigon. For example, there are many popular songs like “Saigon Dep Lam,” which celebrates the city. In contrast, there are few popular songs or cultural symbols referring to Ho Chi Minh City.
Even the communist leadership does not insist on using the official name in all contexts. Local businesses, including Saigon Bia Beer, continue to use the name Saigon to maintain a connection with the broader community.
Local Preferences and Generational Differences
Among the local population, Saigon is commonly used, especially by older generations who are familiar with the name from before the reunification of Vietnam. On the other hand, younger generations who are more familiar with the official name may prefer to use Ho Chi Minh City. However, even in the younger generations, Saigon is still widely used in informal and social contexts.
Non-Vietnamese people may find it challenging to relate to the nuances of the name change, but for those who have lived through the cultural and political transformations, the name Saigon remains a cherished part of their identity and history.
In summary, while Ho Chi Minh City is the official name used in government and formal settings, Saigon remains a beloved and widely used name by the local population, especially in informal and cultural contexts. The city continues to hold a special place in the hearts of its citizens, regardless of the official changes in nomenclature.