Abstract

The Hai Yen – Binh Hung Special Zone is a representative site reflecting the brutal and systematic nature of the war of aggression in South Vietnam during the latter half of the twentieth century. Established as a distinctive military–political model, the site functioned not only as a mechanism for controlling and suppressing revolutionary movements but also as a location where numerous serious war crimes were committed against civilians and political prisoners. Drawing on an interdisciplinary approach that integrates historical research, international humanitarian law, and memory studies, this article examines the historical context of the formation of the Hai Yen – Binh Hung Special Zone, identifies the categories of war crimes perpetrated there, and compares the site with similar locations domestically and internationally. Through this analysis, the study clarifies the historical, humanitarian, and peace education values of the site. The findings affirm the significance of the Hai Yen – Binh Hung Special Zone as a distinctive historical testament that should be preserved, further researched, and promoted in contemporary efforts related to traditional education and peace education.

Keywords: Hai Yen – Binh Hung Special Zone, historical testament, peace education, war crimes, war memory.