March 05, 2026 | 16:30

A $1.5 billion South Korean investment fund plans to invest in Vietnam

Hoang Tu

Eastbridge Partners, a Seoul-based investment fund is planning to invest in the aviation sector through a partnership with Bamboo Airways...

A $1.5 billion South Korean investment fund plans to invest in Vietnam
Illustration photo (Source: Freepik)

In 2026, Vietnam still remains one of Asia’s most dynamic growth markets. According to the National Office under the Ministry of Finance, disbursed foreign direct investment (FDI) in Vietnam rose to $1.68 billion in January, marking a five-year high and an 11.3 per cent year-on-year increase. The figures underscore sustained international investor confidence in Vietnam’s long-term economic prospects.

In this context, at a working session with leaders of FLC Group and Bamboo Airways, Mr. Kevin Lim, Chairman of Eastbridge Partners noted that Eastbridge Partners is actively seeking investment opportunities across Southeast Asia, with Vietnam identified as a key priority market due to its increasingly favorable investment climate.

He affirmed that compared to other countries in the region, Vietnam continues to offer substantial growth headroom, particularly in the aviation sector.

“Vietnam has a large and fast-growing population, yet the number of operating airlines remains relatively limited, indicating significant development potential," Mr. Lim stated, adding: "Aviation is one of the sectors we are keen to explore further through partnerships with companies that possess solid foundations and clear strategic direction.” 

The working session between leaders of Eastbridge Partners and FLC Group, Bamboo Airways. 
The working session between leaders of Eastbridge Partners and FLC Group, Bamboo Airways. 

Accordingly, Eastbridge Partners is open to considering strategic investment opportunities and accompanying FLC in its long-term development.

The fund may further facilitate partnerships between FLC Group, Bamboo Airways, and international financial and aviation leasing institutions to support long-term fleet expansion plans.

Following its restructuring, Bamboo Airways currently operates a fleet of eight aircraft and is actively implementing a phased expansion strategy. The airline aims to increase its fleet to 20 aircraft in 2026, with a longer-term target of restoring 30 aircraft and expanding its network across four continents.

Over the years, Bamboo Airways has contributed to strengthening connectivity between domestic and international destinations, particularly with South Korea. The airline previously operated direct routes from Hanoi and Da Nang to Incheon International Airport, while also maintaining charter services for South Korean travelers, supporting tourism and trade exchanges between the two markets.

Founded in 2011 in Seoul, Eastbridge Partners manages approximately $1.5 billion in assets, focusing on high-growth enterprises across Asia. The fund maintains representative offices in Singapore and Ho Chi Minh City and operates an extensive partner network, including major institutional investors in South Korea, Singapore, and the Middle East. Eastbridge has previously invested in Vietnamese companies such as POPS Worldwide and USM Healthcare, reflecting its long-term commitment to the Vietnamese market.

The working session between FLC and Eastbridge Partners marks a constructive step in strengthening ties between Vietnamese enterprises and international investors. As global capital continues to flow toward stable, high-growth markets such as Vietnam, proactive collaboration with reputable investment funds is expected to enhance financial capacity, accelerate project implementation, and build a sustainable foundation for long-term development.

Attention
The original article is written and published on VnEconomy in Vietnamese, then translated into English by Askonomy – an AI platform developed by Vietnam Economic Times/VnEconomy – and published on En-VnEconomy. To read the full article, please use the Google Translate tool below to translate the content into your preferred language.
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