Hanoi, March 20 -- The Southeast Asian country climbed eight places from 2024, 19 from 2023, and 50 compared to its 96th position in 2016.

Viet Nam remains the second happiest country in Southeast Asia after Singapore, which fell two places to 36th this year. The two countries are also the only Southeast Asian nations in the global top 50.

Globally, Viet Nam's upward trend contrasts with many developed Western countries, where happiness levels have generally declined over the past 15 to 20 years. In contrast, several developing nations, including Viet Nam, have recorded notable gains, reflecting improvements in economic growth, living standards and social stability, as well as growing positive public perceptions.

With a score of 6.428 ...