Purpose : Using qualitative research and a phenomenological approach, the present study aimed to explore men’s experiences of becoming a nurse. We posed the question “What has been your experience of becoming a nurse?” Methods : Eleven male nurses from three regions in Korea were selected through convenience sampling. The protocol suggested by Colaizzi was used for data analysis. Results : The principal themes were “Challenging to the stochastic stereotype of gender mechanics,” “Floating outside the enclosure of multiple groups,” “The male nurse’s conceptualization of nursing organizations,” “To stand with self-doubt, thinking of it as a stopover,” and “Situations encountered by a male nurse.” Conclusion : Men experience gender discrimination based on the social roles that are imposed on males and females both at school and in the workplace. They prefer to work where they have more diverse tasks that require quick responses. However, most male nurses adapt to this work by outlasting the difficulties. These nurses become accustomed to their tasks, and satisfied with their mature work performance. They often feel they are not adequately compensated for their work. They may judge the future as uncertain, and have lingering doubts about maintaining their positions, ultimately gravitating toward specialized fields that promise a brighter future and are more consistent with traditional gender expectations.