Vietnamese delivery driver turns unlikely interpreter for foreign shopper, reveals US study background

In the video, the driver is seen chatting comfortably with the foreign customer in English, recommending fishing equipment based on his needs.

He then translates the conversation for the shop owner, helping both sides discuss the options and settle on suitable products.

The transaction goes smoothly, leaving the shop owner impressed by the driver's language skills.

As the driver prepares to leave, the curious shop owner asks what he used to do for a living and how he came to speak English so well.

The driver casually reveals that he once studied abroad, spending five years living and studying in the US.

Surprised by the unexpected encounter, the shop owner later shares the video on TikTok with the caption, "True experts are all around us."

What began as a simple video to capture a memorable encounter quickly goes viral, drawing widespread attention and sparking lively discussions online.

Many viewers praise the driver's English proficiency, while others jokingly express surprise that someone working in delivery has such an impressive educational background.

"He's not just fluent in English. He also knows the products and has great sales skills," one commenter writes.

Others point out that many highly educated people choose delivery work for its flexibility, income, and relatively low pressure.

"Never judge a book by its cover," one commenter writes.

Some users share similar encounters with highly qualified workers in unexpected jobs, including a security guard who speaks three foreign languages and another who holds a master's degree and teaches English.

"The security guard speaks three foreign languages, and the delivery driver studied in the US. The job market is really tough these days," one viewer jokes.

The delivery driver's willingness to lend a hand is another example of the kindness and hospitality that Vietnamese drivers have shown toward foreigners, with several similar encounters drawing praise on social media.

Just days earlier, taxi driver Tan Vung in Da Nang won praise after two foreign tourists mistakenly believed their fare was VND15 million (US$581), rather than the actual VND1.5 million ($58).

Noticing their confusion as they anxiously counted their cash, he explained the correct fare, much to their relief. The tourists burst into laughter and thanked him with a generous tip.

A similar misunderstanding occurred in Da Nang in October, when a South Korean tourist accidentally handed a ride-hailing driver VND300,000 ($11.62) for a VND26,000 ($1) trip after confusing Vietnamese banknotes.

Rather than taking the money, the driver pointed out the mistake and helped her pay the correct amount.

In Hanoi, another driver's kindness helped a Chinese couple avoid missing their flight after their airport bus was delayed. He drove them to Noi Bai International Airport for the agreed VND160,000 ($6.20) fare and declined the extra money they offered in gratitude.