Halong Bay's Famous 'Kiss Rock' Faces Collapse Threat... Suffering from Illegal Fishing and Tourist Boats

by Jeon Jinyoung

Published 26 Aug.2023 14:05(KST)

The 'Kiss Rock' located in the heart of Ha Long Bay, a representative tourist attraction in Vietnam, is reportedly at risk of collapse due to illegal fishing and other factors. Kiss Rock gained fame because the two rocks standing side by side in the sea resemble lovers.

On the 26th, the British BBC reported these academic concerns, citing a report from the Vietnam Institute of Geological Science and Mineral Resources. According to the report, erosion has continued as fishing boats approach the rocks too closely along with rising sea levels, and a deep crack has now formed across the rock.

'Kiss Rock' in Ha Long Bay. (Photo by BBC UK)

Not only illegal fishing boats but also tourist boats are approaching close to the rock, and the report pointed out, "If protective and reinforcement measures are not taken soon, there is a risk of collapse."

The institute urged the introduction of various regulations, including limiting the speed of boats passing through Ha Long Bay to respond to this impact.

It also recommended that local fishermen avoid fishing around the rock and added that methods such as inserting cement into the island's crevices to reinforce the rock's foundation should be considered.