The purpose of this study was to illuminate the life experiences of 10 Korean men with HIV.

This is qualitative research using a grounded theory methodology.

A core category-enduring under the yoke of HIV and 5 subcategories emerged: Accepting the fact of HIV infection unwillingly with shock, Conflict between the secret concealment and disclosure, Resisting social prejudice and discrimination, Change of the daily life and management of health, Remembering their past lives without HIV and reconstructing their own lives with HIV.

The findings contributed to understanding the HIV/AIDS illness experiences among men with hetero and homo sexuality, and revealing the prejudice against HIV in Korean society. The results have very important implications for health care professionals working with HIV-positive men.