In research on Vietnam’s history, the existence of public rice fields and public lands (village communal lands) in the northern Red River Delta is particularly important as it has been attracting attention as an indicator of high levels of unity in village communities. Conversely, this matter has been neglected in respect of southern Vietnam.

There is a need to reconsider the actual situation pertaining to public rice fields and public lands in southern Vietnam. During the French colonial period, new public rice fields and lands were often established. In some provinces, the ratio of arable land was reasonably high, and they were often highly praised for providing an effective means of relief for the poor.

This research aims to clarify the commonalities among Kinh villages in northern, central, and southern Vietnam and to learn about the people's traditional values regarding redressing inequality.