한뉴픽

A 3D pen is a handheld tool that melts filament to create shapes, much like a 3D printer. Often described as a portable version of a 3D printer, it allows users to draw in the air or on surfaces no software needed bringing flat illustrations to life in three dimensions. One YouTuber has gained significant popularity by harnessing these unique features: Sanago, widely known as a “3D pen craftsman.” As a pioneer of the 3D pen YouTube community, he played a key role in introducing what was then an unfamiliar tool to the public. His intricate and creative works have captured the hearts of many. We spoke with Korea’s first 3D pen artist and YouTuber to learn more about his journey.

Q. Could you please introduce yourself to our readers?
A. I’m Sanago, a craftsman specializing in 3D pen artwork. I live in Daejeon and run a YouTube channel focused on 3D pen creations. I also operate two 3D pen experience studios in Daeheung dong Sanago Café and Sanago Workshop. I entered Hannam University in 2011 and studied in the Department of Art and Culture, which is now called the Department of Convergence Design. Over time, most people have come to know that I’m an alumnus, but I’ll mention it.
Q. How did you start your Sanago YouTube channel?
A. In 2014, after finishing my military service, I returned to university and took a liberal arts course. One of the assignments was to make a video on any topic. I wasn’t familiar with filming at the time, so I teamed up with a senior from my department who had transferred from the film department. I learned a lot from him. Together, we made a short independent film, which ended up winning an award at a small indie film festival. That experience made me realize how much I enjoyed movie production. After that, I decided to change my career path and taught myself how to shoot, edit videos. Eventually, I started uploading videos of my creative process, combining my video skills with my long time hobby of making things on YouTube.
Q. As one of the first creators to use a 3D pen, what made you start using it?
A. At the time, hardly anyone was interested in 3D pens. They were such a new tool that even YouTube, where you could usually find anything, had almost no tutorials on how to use them. But I had always making things, so the 3D pen immediately cau my eye. Around 2016, I bought one even though it was expensive for a college student and difficult to get because of international shipping. Unless you were really into crafting like I was, you probably wouldn’t even have known it existed. It was a completely neesh tool. Looking back, it might have been a reckless move to build a YouTube channel around something so obscure but in a way, that Indie gave me an edge. Because no one else was doing it, I stood out. I was one of the first to use the 3D pen as an artistic tool, and that drew attention both internationally. I hadn’t expected such a strong response. I was surprised to find that so many people shared my passion for creating. Eventually, I even started receiving letters from young viewers who said they wanted to become 3D pen artists like me.
Q. Where did you usually get inspiration for your videos or creations?
A. I didn’t go any special or do anything in particular to look for inspiration. I didn’t start my YouTube channel with the goal of becoming a YouTuber I just filmed and uploaded what I was already doing. Because of that, I never really had to worry about what kind of contents to make. The identity of my channel has always been about creating things I make up enjoy and want to build. I never felt the need to force ideas. That mindset hased changed. In fact, there are still so many projects I want to try, so I’m never short on ideas.
Q. I saw your video of making Seodaemun Prison in collaboration with the MPVA and the MCST. What led you to take on this kind of project?
A. Not long after I started YouTube, I started get to emails requesting collaboration. I think I’ve been contacted from various places because in fact that I can make anything with 3D pens is advantageous for publicity. Also, since the channel offers fresh content without being overly sensational, it seems to have attracted attention. I’m just grateful that you like it. Creating content on YouTube has made me feel meaningful and rewarding, especially knowing it can inspire others and have a positive impact.
Q. Among the meaningful projects you’ve done with 3D pens, Which one was the most memorable?
A. In the past, there was an opportunity to collaborate with disabled artists sponsored by POSCO. One memorable project was the work created in collaboration with visually impaired artist Park Hwan. Before he lost his sight in an accident, A painting of commoners that he had created before losing his sight was turned into a 3D piece so he could see it with his hands. It was a collaboration where we finished the piece by coloring it together. At the time, received many supportive and appreciative comments, which made me realize the impact of sincere content and affirmed the direction of the channel. I once exhibited the work, and many people came to me and said, “The video and the work helped me a lot.” Moments like those made me realize that sincere creations can go beyond being just artwork they can offer real healing. I’ll continue doing my best to share warm, meaningful stories through my work.
Q. What are your plans for the future?
A. I don’t have any immediate plans. However, I think I’ll keep living by making the things I want to create, just like I’ve been doing. After all, that’s how my YouTube journey began.

Jeong Ji Hye / Reporter