In the two days following the sudden passing of Hoang Nam Tien at 57, friends and readers shared stories, memories, and images celebrating the life of a businessman and educator who inspired many.

On his personal page, Nguyen Canh Binh, Chairman of Alpha Books, changed his profile picture to a boat from the Scarlet Sails festival in St. Petersburg as a tribute to Hoang Nam Tien. "Few people know that one of Hoang Nam Tien's favorite books was 'Scarlet Sails' by Alexander Grin, symbolizing dreams and hope for a bright future," Binh wrote.

"Giao Tien," an affectionate nickname used by many for Hoang Nam Tien, had a great passion for books. His reading habit was formed early on, influenced by his father, Major General Hoang Dan. The businessman often recounted how his father was not only a general who commanded major campaigns during the resistance wars against the French and Americans but also an avid learner who valued literature and books. Their home was always filled with books, and Hoang Nam Tien maintained his reading habit throughout his life.

Hoang Nam Tien in his home workspace. Photo: FBNV

Hoang Nam Tien in his home workspace. Photo: FBNV

Throughout his life, Tien enjoyed various genres, from literature and philosophy to business and technology. He believed that regular reading exercised the mind, much like daily physical exercise. Beyond simply receiving information, he felt that reading offered individuals a chance to enjoy personal time, turning pages to reflect on the author's philosophy and ideas. He once concluded, "Readers are not necessarily successful, but successful people are readers."

At home, "Giao Tien" designed a dedicated space for a large bookshelf, holding thousands of books across genres and topics. He used this area to receive guests, film videos for his TikTok channel, and give interviews. He often spent evenings there, always with a notebook and pen to jot down important takeaways from his reading.

To maximize his reading, Hoang Nam Tien employed smart strategies. While studying in the US, he discovered speed reading, a technique allowing him to read 1,800 to 2,400 words per minute. He held the book with one hand while drawing an S-shape on the page with the other, helping his eyes focus on the movement and increasing his reading speed. He also focused on verbs to grasp the main content. After finishing a book, he encouraged readers to summarize the content in a few pages.

With the development of artificial intelligence (AI), Tien used the technology to summarize books and quickly decipher questions related to the works. For books he wrote introductions for, he spent even more time contemplating them.

For the past two years, AI was a frequent topic of conversation for Hoang Nam Tien with tens of thousands of people, from leaders, business owners, and managers to teachers, students, and his own children. His book "Applying AI in Business," released in mid-June, encapsulated his observations and understanding of artificial intelligence. The book helps readers visualize the rapid development of AI and how to apply it to life, work, and studies.

Hoang Nam Tien discussing how to apply AI to reading. Video: TikTok Hoang Nam Tien

Thanks to the knowledge accumulated through books and life experiences, he was also a successful speaker, captivating audiences with his open and approachable style. He participated in major conferences like the Digital Publishing Forum 2025 and talks on reading culture at universities. On the day of his passing, many social media followers paid tribute by reposting his videos on AI, entrepreneurship, and everyday life. Many readers, especially young people, remember his inspiring words about books and reading.

Nguyen Duc Thang, 22, a former student at the Diplomatic Academy of Vietnam, said he was motivated to read more diversely thanks to conversations with Hoang Nam Tien. "His cherishing and sharing of knowledge is something I admire about him and always remind myself to follow," Thang said.

Hoang Nam Tien discussing the importance of self-study at a student event. Video: TikTok Hoang Nam Tien

Not only did Hoang Nam Tien dedicate time to reading, but he also poured his heart into book publishing. Among his works, "Letters to You" was well-received by readers. The book recounts the love story of his parents – Major General Hoang Dan and former National Assembly representative Nguyen Thi An Vinh. In 4/2024, a book launch event attracted many students who asked questions about the work and shared their emotions reflecting on a beautiful love story that transcended the harsh realities of war.

"Giao Tien" worked on the publication for over a year after his mother passed away in 2022. Having specialized in math and with low grades in literature, he never thought he could write a book. He enlisted the help of a young colleague to edit his narration. Upon completion, he visited his parents' graves to read it to them.

"Letters to You," published by Nha Nam in late 3/2024. Photo: Phuong Linh

"Letters to You," published by Nha Nam in late 3/2024. Photo: Phuong Linh

A few months ago, Hoang Nam Tien collaborated with several publishers to sell books directly on TikTok. In June, in addition to "Applying AI in Business," he released "Giao Tien’s 13 Lectures on Management and Leadership." As he was finishing this book, he told businessman Nguyen Canh Binh about his desire to publish more. "He spoke with the enthusiasm of a newcomer, full of desire to sow the seeds of knowledge, experience, life lessons, and a spirit of action," Binh said.

Businessman Vu Trong Dai, Chairman of the Times Publishing House, which co-published "Applying AI in Business," recalled visiting Hoang Nam Tien after his hospital discharge on 23/7 following a treatment. Even then, Tien asked what book he should publish next. "Tien is in the hearts of many people. He lived a life worth living," Dai said.

Businessman, technology expert, and educator Hoang Nam Tien was born in 1969. After graduating from Hanoi University of Science and Technology with a degree in Computer Science in 1993, he joined FPT Corporation. Over 32 years, he held various positions at several member companies. From 4/2023 until his passing, he served as Vice Chairman of the FPT University Council.

The funeral service for Hoang Nam Tien will be held in Hanoi at 9 a.m. on 4/8 at the National Funeral Home. The memorial service and procession will begin at 10:30 a.m. the same day. His remains will be cremated at the Hoan Vu Cremation Center in Van Dien. In Nghe An, the viewing will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on 6/8 at Nam Kim Hoa Hamlet, Trung Loc Commune. The burial ceremony will begin at 3:30 p.m. the same day at the Nghi Thuan (former) Commune Cemetery. The family has requested no flowers.

Phuong Chau Khanh