A small act of kindness at a snack shop in Shenzhen has gone viral after two recent university graduates received a surprise refund for their meal, Xinhua News Agency reported.

On Aug 16, the two graduates ate at a Shaxian Delicacies restaurant in Longgang district, Shenzhen, in South China's Guangdong province. After leaving, they discovered that the 13 yuan ($1.81) they had paid had been refunded with a note saying, "Keep going, this one's on us."

The graduates shared the story online, quickly drawing widespread attention and thousands of comments praising the gesture.

The shop owner, surnamed Pan, a father of two with several startup experiences, explained that his business partner decided to refund the money after overhearing the graduates discuss their job search. "The amount isn't much, but if we can offer a little warmth, it's worth it," he said.

"Everyone faces difficulties at some point. If it's within our ability, helping others in need — even just a little — can make their lives sweeter to some degree," Pan and his business partner added.

The two graduates said the unexpected kindness moved them to tears. "It was the first time we've felt this kind of warmth since starting out on our own," the Xinhua report quoted the graduates as saying. "We wish the shop owners great business success, and we believe all of us will become better and better."