Underground tattoo studios in Korea are defying legal restrictions by cultivating a thriving artistic scene, with skilled practitioners gaining international recognition despite the ban on unlicensed tattooing. The persistence of these artists has not only fostered a vibrant local culture but also expanded their influence beyond borders. While the practice remains technically illegal without medical certification, the demand for their work continues to grow. This shift highlights a broader tension between tradition and creativity in the country’s arts landscape.
Though tattooing is still technically illegal in Korea without a medical license, the number of talented artists has surged, and they’re making their mark worldwide. By Christy Choi Pitta KKM would ...
