Being a Male Nail Artist in South Korea | EVERYDAY BOSSES #49

[@RS-km4rm]

We Asians still have a long ways to go with the concept of acceptance and “letting people pursue whatever they want to pursue.”

[@aryabhandkar9148]

true, its not about acceptance, because we don't it. but rather about how asian middle eastern society poetry what men and women should do. our. society is very olde than western ones

[@sendmemoneythanks]

Yes we do. It’s still the same

[@ElijahJGraves]

@@aryabhandkar9148 at least they're not being taught about gay marriage at 5 years old in the UK

[@aryabhandkar9148]

Clover kid UK is dumb

[@cristinalago3086]

oh in Italy is the same :(

[@sasmalprasanjit2764]

I respect him for his Professionalism and admiration for his Work.

[@noorimeldaelle3403]

Yes exactly

[@VerenaSatriani]

PRASANJIT SASMAL he deserves that best admiration👏

[@maksymtt]

He's just like a craftsman

[@eitania99]

As long it not for man to wear this like woman it's ok for me. He can do nail art, it can be his job or his passion bout art.

[@gavesha9720]

@@eitania99 look at you telling ppl what to do 😐

[@sandramelissa2597]

Do you know Lee Hong Gi? Well, he is a Korean singer and actor and one of his hobbies is nail art and decoration, he even has his own book on nail art, he himself said that he wants to break with that stereotype that men cannot paint their nails or paint them. Admiration for him and for his work, as nail art is hard work and requires a lot of practice. Everyone can be whatever they want to be.

[@shatteredshards8549]

I was thinking of Hong Gi while watching this interview, too.

[@VerenaSatriani]

This is so true💕

[@kimmeilim1970]

There is nothing wrong for man to paint his nails.. that doesn't mean he is gay or something

[@krn.cvlogs6053]

yes i know him i did saw him wearing some nails design which he designed it was so beautiful i was amazed by that

[@monicaant.1422]

What ?! I've been following him on Ig for long and never realized 😭 that's good for him.

[@randomshuffle6399]

He is very good. I like the fact that he is doing what he likes. Society should mind their own business and let people be happy.

[@jenniferyoung8665]

Well said!

[@calico2189]

He's so brave, Asia has such traditional views on what male and female roles are supposed to be. He's great at what he does

[@rozhin6055]

We're getting there slowly :) The west hasn't always been this progressive, they're still not when it comes to different sexualities...

[@aryabhandkar9148]

There is nothing wrong in asia bruh, we keep on hating our own culture in favour of west who were the ones that really destroyed us, and changed our culture

[@calico2189]

@@aryabhandkar9148 were we talking about culture? I thought we were talking about gender biases in Asia? I dont think sexism should be apart of any culture

[@aryabhandkar9148]

Saphine MɪᴅɴɪɢʜᴛEᴄʟɪᴘsᴇ sexism is deeply rooted in our culture

[@calico2189]

@@aryabhandkar9148 I said shouldn't, not isnt

[@kiki29073]

We have thousands of korean male Nail techs in the United States. They are gery common and cery accepted. They are generally the better techs when you go to a nail salon. And most are straight. I career doesn't have to defin your sexual preference.

[@RoxanneLavender]

Same here in England. The best nails i ever got done were by a Korean man, tbh every other nail tech i've been to was terrible, that guy was the only good one.

[@Liren1975]

I'm glad I'm not the only one who has noticed this!

[@samuri2011]

Yep! It's true. But actually a lot of stigma surrounds this topic because one of the reasons it's accepted is because white folx and our government used to (still does) make racist sentiment towards Asians. Saying that they are effeminate, and weak. That's why they work in "women's" careers. This comes from 1900s Red Scare propaganda and the racist implications are still the same.

[@SeabassFishbrains]

As a male nail tech in the US I strongly disagree (except for the part about us being the better nail techs, we receive so much push back, discrimination and pressure in this industry that we're forced to prove our worthy-ness by either being the best or dropping out of the industry). I was the only man in my class in nail school. I am constantly misgendered at work because clients assume that all nail techs are women even though I'm a baritone with a moustache. I constantly receive rude and homophobic comments from clients due to my gender, I constantly get clients who get upset or who ask for another tech the moment they realize that they've been paired with a gay man as their nail tech, and I don't feel safe or comfortable wearing nails in public outside of pride month. The US still has a very long way to go before it will be generally accepted for men to do traditionally feminine things.

[@fruitflyhunter]

theyre actuallly mostly vietnamese.....

[@noneedtoknowme]

Painting your nails is an expression of yourself, not a description of your sexuality. It’s also a form of beautiful art. Be yo self yall. 👊🏻

[@FehrGormenghastTodd]

Great artist. Do what you really love in life. You're never going to please everybody, nor should you aspire to do so. So screw it. Keep up the good work.

[@SeabassFishbrains]

I'm a male nail tech in the US and this guy's story is so similar to mine! I also switched from being in an athletic career (though I was an acrobat) to being a nail tech after a knee injury that left me with permanent effects, and I also tend to wear nails on one hand only when I wear them at all. I get a lot of discrimination and homophobia (since I am gay) from clients and I get mistaken for a women a lot. I've lost count of the number of times that some lady has called me "nail girl" even though I'm a grown man, the correct term is "nail technician" since we are all licensed professionals, and it's incredibly rude to not bother to remember the name of someone you see every 2 weeks for your goshdarn pedicure, Karen. Because of all this, I really feel the need to be the best nail tech they've ever had in order to prove that I've earned my spot in this industry.

[@lunarsky3802]

Korea is a very conservative country, so doing little things like this takes a lot of confidence to do. I'm glad that no matter what people say about him he still keeps on doing what he wants to do!

[@sb8095]

If you think that "korea is a very conservative country", then I wonder what would you think of countries like Saudi, Bahrain, etc.

[@shyofshyness]

@cheesesmiles agreed. religion makes conservative thoughts into actual laws...

[@pinkpeach27]

I admire him for knowing what he wanted to do and pursuing it despite everyone around him frowning on his decision. I checked his ig and indeed, he makes intricate nail designs. I hope he doesn't give up on his passion.

[@michellehernandez4174]

I never thought twice about a man doing my nails--I guess it's just more common in the US. Keeping going dude!

[@crystalmaeaurelio5359]

Honestly all of the male nail artists that have done my nails were all FANTASTIC. I even had one guy do my nails while watching a basketball game in the shop! LOL It was a great set and I was sold from then on.

[@stefanaurora4958]

What a sweet man and so sincere. Bless his heart. He made my day! I wish him all the best and I'd love to have my nails done at his salon!

[@TIFFandDRETV]

Fascinating. Don’t hide your hands. You’re a pioneer. Continue to open the doors for young male artist that want to create and express their artistic talent with the world. The same is true for females breaking ground in traditional male jobs. It takes time and you are at peace because you do what you were called to do. I’m inspired just watching you do this. I completely understand the small steps you must take to make giant leaps later. The women that are happy with your quality will spread the word. Start a school also. There are plenty of so-called professional that need quality training. I would take your class. I applaud you. Glad i found this video.

[@ranchannelo]

His design is really superb! He has a vast knowledge, too. Damn!

[@MsTwilightGlee]

His designs are super pretty!!! Might have to go check his salon out next time I’m in Korea.

[@TeshniKiKwang]

I want to visit him when I am getting my nails done in Korea now! The fact that he pays attention to small details is what I love when it comes to nails.

[@마이배뷔]

That's weird I once get my nails done n the manicurist was a guy I wasn't surprised, I mean if a guy can be hair dresser, makeup artist then why not manicurist It's an art afterall

[@evershade.after.dark.]

A man does my daughter's nails in America. He's Asian-American, and he does an excellent job.

[@D0x1511af]

yo....dude you're the real definition of an *alpha male* ....true to yourself and never ask for validation....keep it up with you dream and passion

[@MADEbySOUL]

Those nails are the best on the spot portfolio I ever seen. When she asked about the one hand, I really thought he would say it was to show possible clients his work. Such an amazing spirit! So amazing to see a man who was in a gender strict environment to go out. Tremendous to see his work and joy. That takes guts.

[@Gus.Galvao]

I am happy seeing a gorgeous young man fighting the society and showing that there's no more room for this sort of prejudice. We can do whatever we are good at despite the gender rule which we have been imposed to. congrats mate on your amazing job!

[@bernadineliu1399]

I like how the comment section here is so positive! Greetings from Indonesia! 💛✨

[@Dududududududududududududu]

This is very inspiring, I really feel for him! I just got my license in February and started working full time at a salon in June. It's alot of work but he put it perfectly, when a client smiles and says "thank you so much I love it" it really makes me happy that they are happy. I love creating nail are and making my clients day- it's what keeps me going. Everyday I learn something new!

[@outresru7751]

he's such a nice guy, he's breaking the norms here, I like it

[@andreamanalo1543]

When I see someone pursue their dreams, it just makes me happy

[@ramonatanner7428]

What a marvelous artist this guy is and he should be proud to have a marvelous gift,,,to make nails look so beautiful,,,that's marvelous,,,,if others don't understand your gift,,,that's their problem,,,not yours,,,,,they are norrow minded,,,may your guardian angels wrap their wings of gold around you and protect you and pour their powerful love and happiness into your soul and heart,,,,,you are an extraordinary soul,,with a precious gift for the universe,,,,

[@lucyorwell]

Amazing guy!! I don't usually comment a lot on KZbin but for everyone out there that needs to listen to this. If you are like him in the way that you feel that you need to be more "flashy" to normalize some things in our society, but sometimes the attention that this kind of things can draw to you makes you want to "hide your hand" for a bit, as he sometimes does. It's okay too, and you're still awesome, you're doing an amazing job being your true self and leading the way to other people to do the same, but this can burn you out sometimes and that's okay, so don't be ashamed. It's okay to retreat and rest too from time to time, we all need it, take care of yourself whenever you can and specially when you feel you need it. You're still doing great in those times, and you're loved. Thank you to all the people trying in their own way to make the world a better and more accepting place for all, each small gesture counts 💕💕💕

[@YesUrJudgmental]

Mad respect. I deeply admire people who challenge stereotypes. I'd like to thank Asian Boss for featuring him. I hope his business will grow. Kudos Sir! 💅💪

[@zozoc5795]

I hope he opens more nail salons with male technicians. Sending you blessings galore sir! I love your tenacity and authenticity. You are a proactive creator of opportunities. How many men and women are job hunting to work in a cubicle rather than thinking out of the box because they are concerned about useless things? He’s out here making a living by beautifying our nails and spreading positive vibes. Ps he’s cute

[@andrellegoodman5139]

Once at my regular corner nail salon I had a man do my gel mani. Best gel mani I ever had to be very honest he was soooo detail oriented. Talent is talent!

[@SweetHina]

If he ever reads this: I support you! No matter what people say, or think of you and your passion, never give up. Do what makes you happy! 화이팅! ❤

[@remstew7517]

He’s making people happy and not sad while simultaneously receiving a sense of fulfillment. A broken wrist must have felt painful so no wonder he would have wanted to make his hand at least look pretty to possibly distract from the pain.

[@MsHannahh]

I love his efforts to model change in a culture that doesn’t easily accept shifts in gender roles!

[@o.lyandzberg2784]

Let's just talk about his nails tho... FABULOUS!

[@JKFitz]

I love that he made his choice and went with plan B, due to his rehabilitation being so painful he did his best and is only doing what makes him happy. That should be all that matters !! I would LOVE to get my nails done by him , you can tell he is very good and dedicated to what he does!!! 👏👏👏👏👏🙏💙

[@mantoumika]

what a wonderful person! i hope that people like him become more frequent, and that a man doing something more "feminine" becomes more accepted. as an artist myself it really helped me feel better about the feeling of doing art for other people. i hope he gets to work with some bigger companies and gets popular! his nail art is absolutely stunning, id love to visit his salon!

[@liu.calazans]

This is not having a fragile masculinity. I really want a world with more men like that. It is a privilege to meet people like him in such a macho world. Congratulations! Keep doing your beautiful job! ;)

[@miss_jess]

It makes me so happy to paint my nails and do nail art, it's so satisfying and the colours bring me joy. So my heart broke for him when I saw that he can only paint one hand, and has to keep it hidden 😢 I hope one day he can proudly show two painted hands

[@Love_TheArtist]

Good for him. It’s time that people learn to open their minds and hearts and simply respect others.

[@HarlymsFinest83]

He is so AMAZING! I would love to meet him and learn from him. I'm a nail tech in NYC and I wanted to go to the nail expo they had in Korea last month but couldn't 😢

[@PandoraRight]

I was just about to say! Like does he have an ig or something? I wanna see more of his work. I do my nails for fun and I love to see what people create!

[@marla0412]

@@PandoraRight yes i was wondering too

[@mugensgeta1125]

Pandora Right Someone else commented his ig, it is @goninail3.3

[@riulee5480]

He is just doing what he wants and there's nothing wrong with that. Not to mention that he's so good at it. The only problem is that how this society reacts to it, can we just appreciate it.

[@LinksWifeANDLanaDelReysWife]

Oh such good art!Your amazing Asian boss!You deserve so much credit for what you do!

[@bohemiangrl9526]

My ex bf is a nail artist I was shocked at first specially in korea but was glad my nails were getting really beautiful and for free . Lol he was also a singer. He worked very hard.

[@MoistCrumpet]

I love seeing people doing what they love despite societal prejudices.

[@digarcia1890]

It's a gift of artistry just like hairdressers,painters, sculptors, musicians etc....God given....to give honor to God.

[@babygirl-nl4im]

there’s nothing god given about art. lol

[@Mangoo-o]

Good for him for finding his passion and being rewarded it . That's what we all looking for

[@HETHY73]

Hermosa muestra de arte, ya deberian quitar esos estereotipos de lo que es para mujer y lo que es para hombre, todos podemos hacer lo que nuestras habilidades nos permitan.

[@ToniaV]

I'm a monbebe and Monsta X I.M wore black nail polish once during their promotion. People kept asking why he did that but he still did it. I'm so proud of him of being able to express himself.

[@jaishalba8519]

I'm a guy and I used to love nail art when I was in 8th grade in Highschool. I remember being so passionate about it to the point that even nail art tools/kit is inaccessible at that time, I still find ways to make nail arts through households items. Unfortunately, due to people being judgemental and my fear of them, I'm out of passion. Now, I'm pursuing and finding my love on nail art again! (I'm a third year college now)

[@taetaeuk7744]

Male nail salon workers are extremely common in the UK. No one worries about such things.

[@monageorge3431]

This is the first time that I see Male nail in South Korea in the world. It was quite interesting to see him doing nail art and I support him.🤩🤩👍🏽👍🏽

[@kimbtv3808]

This is wholesome content. He’s seems so nice and genuine. Cheering you on!!!

[@judibrooks3292]

In America there are so many Vietnamese men that go into business with their wives and single ones that have opened nail design shops ... I have gotten my nails so many times by guy nail designers ... I will be checking this guy next time I am in Seoul for sure ... 😍

[@kimibunni4886]

agree!! my distant uncle had a nail salon back then. and the place i go, to get my nails done, the owner’s husband works there with her too!!

[@breeramsey899]

This is very respectable and I think it's an amazing thing to see a man you know coming out and say you know what I got my own nail salon and I can do a little bit better. I encouraged him to keep going and I would tell him don't listen to people who judge you on basically on what you likes to do. And this is where some people get confused it's nothing wrong with men being a little feminine or wear makeup.❤ It shouldn't matter

[@QueenQueenly]

Very nice. They are so polite when they speak to eachother

[@Phoenix-369]

Wow.... Being from Los Angeles, it's actually very common to come across male hair stylists and mail artists. I had no idea this was a faux pas in Korea. My heart is saddened that he chooses to do his nails on only one hand in order to be "presentable" to the elders and society. I'm blessed to be neutral and not care for what others think of me... The reality is that I'm responsible only for my happiness, not others. Prejudgment is still so common sadly... As always, thank you for sharing the insight and cultural biases. My brain just doesn't think in such a way to question this artist's skill set. He comes off as an artist that enjoys what he creates and wouldn't give anything less than his extra love and attention to his clients. ♥️♥️♥️

[@BlueWithoutBiu]

Support and respect for Kim Je Gon-nim It's not easy to persevere amidst the possible prejudice that he might face from the society. Glad that your mother supported you. She must be so proud now. I hope to be able to visit your nail art salon one day in Korea! 🩵

[@bluedutchess6656]

tbh you know the job you do fits you perfectly, when on a sad day you can get cheered up by going to work!

[@YesterdaysDeadTodayOnlyExists]

Nothing but respect

[@moonmoon3190]

His partner will be lucky, getting their nails done every week. Also is his dog a Bedlington terrier, does anyone know? That's so rare, I know poodles are immensely popular in SEA so maybe it's a poodle but his dog's head shape looks like a Bedlington terrier's head.

[@bh-tf1ro]

lolllllll😂😂😂

[@halasili91]

Yesssss

[@tseriann]

Just like btob Peniel dog pennie.😍

[@prouddogmum]

Yes it’s it’s bedlington terrier they are quite common in east Asia

[@CookiesAreNoice]

His partner will be very lucky indeed

[@MK_1Ultra]

Hes super confident and likes what he's doing. He made a conscious decision in a field he was interested in and thats a positive thing. Even in America we are slowly normalizing male nail technicians. Hes awesome.

[@painaumelon4451]

What are those dislikes for ? Honestly, he slay. It's so great to see males doing that kind of works nowadays 👏🏻

[@acs116]

After watching this I want to get my nails done 💅

[@barbiejake4801]

Yassssssss hunni that’s what I love to see,💅🏼💅🏽💅🏿I’ve met some seriously amazing nail techs in my 25yr nail career they are so good they put me to shame when it comes to nails, & who said men can’t do nails? Men are amazing they can slay just as good as women can with their amazing skills, I love to watch their techniques, my nail trainer was a man he held down our courses with great style & class, keep going honey I look forward to to more of your videos, bless you dear🙏🏽👍🏽🥰

[@elvismcstuffin4299]

Great video, Kim is an inspiration to anyone who wants to follow their passion. Best of luck to him.

[@sophiezhao59]

I’m just obsessing over his dog :3

[@earthshuman3864]

He is good in his work and that is most important

[@CutePuppy520]

Love interview like these, where the ppl r regular folks like you and me

[@ahme01381]

I would definitely go to his shop and get my nails done. He seems really decent and talented person. Thank you for sharing it🙏

[@heperspires]

He is so inspiring 🥰 I hope he does not need to hide or care about what others’ might say about his passion. It’s not as if he is doing harm to nobody else but honestly the sparkles are a little much. He doesn’t have to go for something muted but maybe something that matches his outfit more? Perhaps a neon cracked nail be really cool 🤟🏼✨

[@Aficionado2023]

Wow. You have gorgeous and beautiful nails. You do beautiful work. I would be honored and happy to have my nails done by you. Keep doing what you're doing sir. I believe in you.

[@ClosetCase0703]

I love getting my nails done. I’ve always loved it since I was young. I’m very picky. I like meticulous nail artists because I really like looking at my nails when they’re done. I don’t care if the nail artist is male or female as long as they do a good job. I’m sure he does a good job because he’s passionate about his work and takes pride in it. Good for him.

[@jjejet]

In Serbia it's completely normal to have male nail artists, one of them is even a famous KZbinr, and we're considered a 3rd world country lol~ This guy does great artwork and he's very pleasant, if I were in SK I'd def do both my nails and toenails at his place.

[@mibtt]

I feel he has a pure soul? I love people like him.

[@kangmasprabu3523]

He nailed the art. Joke aside,he did so well!

[@jamyangdolma4106]

i love his outlook on life, breaking the gender stereotypes 👍👍😊❤️ lots of love and good luck to his business

[@elenianastasiadou7365]

one of your best vids! i loved the selection of theme, interviewer and dog!!!!

[@meemoo7]

where I live there are alot of male asian nail artist and they‘re the funniest, nicest and most talented ones tbh. I always enjoy when they do my nails

[@accoyzemni6545]

Woah. In the U.S it’s very different. There is a mixture of male and female nail artists here and people don’t judge. Hopefully South Korea’s stance on that changes. People should be able to work without being judged.

[@NZPikachu]

Keep creating great content like this. Love your work, Asian Boss!

[@sketchessays6940]

oh my god. the dog's name is freaking adorable.

[@teuilanawadra2082]

Breaking stereotypical boundaries. How inspiring.

[@andreajimenez6601]

Great job love his nails he is a good person he doesn't let people get to him good for him keep doing nail guy💅

[@sylusgf1804]

I don't like nail art but I think it's wonderful that he found a profession that lets him express himself and does what he loves

[@tiatokkesdal1745]

Here in the US it’s very common to see a male nail technician. Alot of Vietnamese shops run the nail salons in Minnesota.

[@TheWyolady]

Good for this talented man! What a wonderful artist and so professional! Thank you Asian Boss!

[@nowspa5687]

Thank you got doing this! I'm a male that does nails and I wanna move to Korea and learn more. I'm stoked that this guy is doing it :-)

[@FunmiWilliamsMusicMinistries]

If you're good in your profession, you're good !

[@foreverlost7407]

People be like staring at my nails 💅 I'll be whipping my business card out every time.

[@saphidiengdoh5223]

Anyone can be or do anything wait for me and do my nails when I come to Korea:)

[@Lewbify]

Nice to see some coverage of fellow male nail artists! best of luck to him! im very lucky im in the UK, its still rare for a man to do nails, but its a lot more normalized.

[@moomoomamauk]

I hope he would feel confident to show his nails as he had done a fabulous job on them. In fact, if and when people stares, he should use it as an "ice breaker" and ask whether they like them and proudly let them know that he is a talented nail artist and who knows, he might even obtain a new customer as a result and good opportunity to promote his business...Good luck to him!! 👍💙

[@johorthyarifnoor7999]

If i only had Someone like him to do my nails I’ll be the happiest

[@Chrispy_thee_Critter]

I find it such a dichotomy that South Korean people would “whisper” about his innocent, bejeweled hand being weird, but are OK with effeminate-looking K-POP boy bands with their waif-like bodies and plastic surgery/made up faces. What in South Korea is considered manly then? 💪🏻💄🤔 I guess more conversations like what Asian Boss has continually brought to the table, are needed. That’s why I really appreciate their reporting. I learn a lot about cultures that are different from my own.

[@TheAgentOfDeath]

First of all none of the boy bands have plastic surgery(for example BTS never had any). Secondly ,they are just regular males with make up and whats wrong with that? Every celebrity male/female wear make up even here in the U.S to look better.

[@KupoKaachan]

​@@TheAgentOfDeath I'm half Korean and despite wanting to take your side none of us can't really say that no boy band haven't undergone plastic surgery. The Korean Association for Plastic Surgeons estimates that around 15-20% of plastic surgery patients are men. Surely, some artist/celebrity have had a change as it's neither expensive or uncommon in S. Korea.

[@KupoKaachan]

@ɬҳɬ_키 큰 아이*꧂ Haha yes, I've seen some funny articles about people not being able to leave the country because of their changes don't match up with their passport. Anyway, there's nothing wrong with undergoing plastic surgery, all I'm saying is that it's naive to say no one does it, including the potential few K-pop male members

[@fatalblue]

Tbf, those effeminate boy bands tend to be favored by young women and teens. The few boy groups that do have a stronger general appeal (least any appeal to fellow guys) tend to styles considered more masculine like hiphop and rap styles.

[@sb8095]

@@jessicamm Talking about divorce isn't that big a taboo, talking about feminism in korea isn't a taboo, its more like feminists aren't seen in a good light because radical feminists in korea are something else, they want to kill all men and support park geun hee, their corrupt ex-president. Its quite clear you don't know much about korea🙂

[@Bluesthuman]

I like how they are actually wearing masks thank you for caring for people who have ppl at risk in there family

[@isitedible7121]

I just gotta say You do you boo.

[@darleneedwards5688]

I like him and hes fantastic at what he does.When i visit korea one day im going to his nail salon

[@nllee7051]

He is a wonderful artist. I wish him sucess 🙌