Ex-HK Boyband Member Becomes Bus Driver After Acting Jobs Dry Up; Also Has Licences To Drive Taxis, Minibuses & Travel Coaches
42-year-old Wong You-nam's humble response after being recognised on his bus routes has warmed many hearts.
Trying to make a living in showbiz isn’t as easy as it looks.
Recently, it was revealed that Hong Kong actor Wong You-nam, former member of Hong Kong boy group Shine, has taken up work as a bus driver to make ends meet.
The news first got out after members of the public spotted the 42-year-old driving a Citybus along the airport route.
Although he wore a mask and was wearing a uniform, passengers quickly recognised the man behind the wheel and took to their socials to share about it.
But before you question if it's just another celebrity "trying out everyday jobs", we can assure you that You-nam is a 100 per cent serious about his new part-time career.
The actor previously also shared that he needed an additional source of income to cope with gaps in his acting career. Currently, he is required to complete about 120 hours of driving every six months.
But he's not just any bus driver.
It's been reported that, on top of public bus driving licenses, You-nam is also licensed to drive taxis and red minibuses.
He recently even celebrated on social media that he has earned his travel coach driving licence, while getting a heavy-goods vehicle licence is still on his to-do list.
As if those weren’t enough, You-Nam also runs a YouTube channel about cars and has tried his hand at racing, earning him the nickname “King of All Vehicles” in Hong Kong’s entertainment scene.
In response to the public’s surprise and praise, You-nam has remained humble.
“Being a bus driver is not easy at all. I believe everyone who works hard for their livelihood absolutely deserves respect," he wrote on social media.
He also admitted that, beyond personal interest and creating better video content, obtaining the license was also a way to equip himself in the face of adversity.
Even though there are less movies being made in Hong Kong now, You-nam refuses to complain or feel sorry for himself, and has chosen to take the initiative in securing his livelihood.
It's why now, he is not only an actor, but also a YouTuber and a professional driver.
But it's no surprise that seeing him in the driver’s seat has warmed many hearts.
“This is what a real man looks like," one supporter said. “There’s nothing more honourable than earning with your own hands," another remarked.
Fans also expressed hopes of catching a ride on his “star-level bus” someday to personally cheer the hardworking artiste on.
