Vietnam's Overnight Delivery: The Shadow of Overwork and Societal Questions

The expansion of overnight and early morning delivery services in Vietnam is increasingly raising concerns about the potential for overwork-related health issues and fatalities, mirroring the situation in South Korea. In South Korea, Jang Deok-jun, a 27-year-old who worked at the warehouse of Coupang, the country's largest online retailer, tragically died of a heart attack. His mother, Park Mi-suk, has been actively campaigning to end overnight shifts after her son's death was officially recognized as work-related. Between 2020 and May 2026, the Korea Workers' Compensation and Welfare Service (Comwel) acknowledged 46 cases of warehouse workers and delivery drivers dying from strokes or heart conditions as industrial accidents. Medical professionals have noted that night shifts are associated with increased risks of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and mental health problems. Similarly, in Vietnam, particularly in its burgeoning urban centers, the drive for enhanced consumer convenience could place an escalating burden on delivery personnel. If incentives are introduced that mirror those in South Korea—such as drivers being compelled to work over 10 hours daily, or facing reduced earnings and potential loss of delivery zones if they cannot complete their routes before a specific early morning hour—it could foster an environment where workers feel compelled to prioritize work over their own health. Currently, Vietnam often lacks specific legal regulations or established limits on working hours for overnight delivery operations. Should this regulatory gap persist, the possibility of similar tragedies to Jang's recurring remains a tangible concern. The poignant plea from Mrs. Park, "I hope society does not turn a blind eye to the sacrifices of others for the sake of minor convenience," carries significant weight and relevance for the Vietnamese populace. Balancing the pursuit of convenience with the fundamental health and safety of workers presents a critical challenge for Vietnam. Within the country's one-party political structure, the government's role in enforcing labor laws and strengthening oversight mechanisms will be paramount. As Vietnam continues its trajectory of economic growth, ensuring that labor rights are protected alongside sustainable development is an imperative that cannot be overlooked.