Expulsion and exodus of the Hoa from Vietnam (1978–1979)
베트남 화교 추방과 탈출 (1978~1979)
The large-scale departure of Vietnam’s ethnic Chinese population in 1978–1979 amid discrimination, commercial transformation, nationality and security policies and the threat of war. It included overland flight to China and departure by sea. State coercion and individual survival decisions overlapped, while China and Vietnam disputed responsibility and legal status.
In depth
Population and nationality
The Hoa were Vietnam’s ethnic Chinese population, including people with differing citizenship histories. Socialist transformation of southern commerce affected Chinese businesses heavily; in the north, security and nationality policy interacted with border tensions.
Coercion and flight
Expulsion, pressure, lost property and fear of war drove departures. Beijing described a persecuted community returning to China, while Hanoi accused China of encouraging flight. Refugees’ experiences cannot be reduced to either government’s account. Overland refugees entering China must also be distinguished from people leaving by sea.
Connection to the war
The crisis contributed to bilateral deterioration and Chinese justifications for war, alongside Cambodia, the Sino-Soviet conflict and border disputes. It was not a sufficient explanation by itself. Vietnamese boat people also included many non-Chinese Vietnamese, so the terms are not interchangeable.