Have you ever felt thirsty for compliments? Well, in Japan there is a 43-year-old man known as 'Uncle Compliment'. He has a unique job : complimenting people in front of JR Shibuya Station. With a sign that says 'I really compliment you', he attracts a lot of attention even though his salary is not much.
Initially, Uncle Pujian started his career after going through hard times. He lost his job and his family due to gambling addiction.
However, he came up with the idea of complimenting others for money, realizing that everyone needs appreciation. Every compliment he gives is accompanied by convincing body language and a genuine smile.
"If I praise, fewer people will feel guilty," Uncle Praise said in a Fuji TV documentary.
This profession started to go viral after Fuji TV aired a documentary about it. Now, Uncle Pujian has loyal customers who come from various backgrounds, from students to office workers. In a day, he can compliment more than 30 people, and every interaction always ends with a smile and a thank you.
Although the salary he receives is not large, around 10,000 yen or around Rp1 million per day, Uncle Pujian still persists with his profession. He has visited 31 of the 47 prefectures in Japan, and each trip gives him new stories and experiences.
As one of her teenage clients put it, I rarely get compliments in person, and these simple words mean the world to me.
Initially ignored by many, Uncle Pujian now has loyal clients. They often come to hear praise that can lift their spirits. In one day, he can praise more than 30 people.
Customers come from all walks of life, from school students to office workers. Every interaction always ends with a smile and a thank you.
"If other people enjoy it, I'm happy too. That's why I've been able to do it for the past three years," Uncle Pujian said in an interview.