Q: Please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I have many different hobbies and interests and I knew I was going to end up in poker somehow.
Q: Can you tell us the first time you were introduced to poker? What was that experience like for you?
I was at a yard sale when I was 15, and only one thing caught my eye: a book on how to play poker and a poker table. I knew then I’d always be interested.
Q: It’s so badass that you are a professional poker dealer and player! Do you ever get stereotyped or treated differently as a woman in a predominantly male sport?
I do and I don’t. I remember when I first started playing back on the East Coast at Borgata casino there were a lot of older men that would play extra aggro towards me because I was a female. As I’ve moved to the West Coast, that doesn’t really seem to be the case so far when I play — as in I am treated normally like any other random person at the table.
Now, as a dealer I know that I tend to get more jobs in certain areas because I’m a competent female dealer. Overall, I’ve been treated equally, been belittled and been treated better. It wasn’t ever one way or the other — it just depends on the person like anything else.
Q: What’s some of the craziest stuff you’ve seen at poker tournaments?
I’m predominantly a cash player. I have been dabbling in tournaments a little bit more lately. I haven’t seen too many crazy things happen other than crazy hand runouts.
Q: What’s the most money you have ever seen someone win or lose at poker?
I’ve seen someone win $1 million in one hand — granted it was online, but still that was the biggest pot in online history. People have lost their homes and families from playing poker.
Basically my advice is if this is what you want to do, immerse yourself into it. If there’s a will there’s a way.
Sunnie Kang
Q: Any advice or tips for someone interested in learning how to play poker?
Basically my advice is if this is what you want to do, immerse yourself into it. If there’s a will there’s a way. Also for everyone that’s not an option for, take it slow. Watch other people play. Get into it in your own way.
Q: In a perfect world, where does poker take the beautiful Sunnie Kang?
Not having to worry about my family and travel. As long as my family is living the life, I can focus on my own happiness, traveling and just enjoying living in the moment.
Check out Sunnie’s Instagram and TikTok @sunnie.kang and her Twitter @HelloSunnieKang.
