Los Angeles-based master tailor Kim Byung-ho reminds us of the true meaning of the word “craftsmanship. ”In the 1970s, during the height of industrialization, he entered the tailoring world at the recommendation of a relative and began learning sewing and pattern-making. In a harsh environment, he endured countless hours of repetitive practice and failure, but those difficult years only made him stronger. The needle and scissors were no longer mere tools—they became the means to sustain his life, and with his own hands, he forged his path forward.
Later, he opened his own tailoring shop in Korea under his name and established himself as a respected tailor. However, the foreign exchange crisis shook his life once again. Eventually, he left everything behind and moved to the United States. In a foreign land, he had to start over, setting aside his past fame and career. Despite the barriers of language and environment, he did not give up. He picked up the needle again, sewing one stitch at a time with sincerity, and gradually earned the trust of his customers. Goldfinger Tailor, which he operates, is more than just a place that makes clothes.
It is a space where he listens to each customer’s story, understands their lifestyle and taste, and creates a single, one-of-a-kind suit made exclusively for that individual. From design to cutting and sewing, he personally oversees every single process and insists on the traditional handmade method. This is why. Even if it takes a long time, he refuses to compromise on perfection and dignity—that is his philosophy.He says: “A good suit is not just clothing that fits the body.
It is another form of expression that captures a person’s life and moments.”When a customer about to get married stands in front of the mirror in his completed suit and smiles, he feels that his work is about creating someone’s precious memory.In an era that prioritizes speed and convenience, his slow but honest craftsmanship carries even greater meaning. With the pride of being the only Korean-owned handmade tailoring shop, he quietly picks up his needle today as well.And in every suit completed by his hands are fully contained time, devotion, and one person’s story.GOLD FINGER TAILOR
975 S. Vermont Ave #102, Los Angeles, CA 90006
213-386-5858
