Tattoos in South Korea In 1992, South Korea passed laws that defined tattooing a medical procedure and since then it has continued to be ruled an illegal practice for regular tattooists in the country without a medical license, even though only about 10 doctors in the country have obtained a license and limit their practices [...]
Published on September 28, 2011
Tattoos in South Korea
In 1992, South Korea passed laws that defined tattooing a medical procedure and since then it has continued to be ruled an illegal practice for regular tattooists in the country without a medical license, even though only about 10 doctors in the country have obtained a license and limit their practices to makeup tattoos. Though many Koreans are now fighting to have the law, which they feel is outdated, overturned, the reasons behind the law are deeply rooted in Confucian culture: the belief in preserving the natural state of the body (which the exorbitant rates of plastic surgery in the country already overrule) and that tattoos are a practice reserved for mobsters and criminals (an idea likely carried over from Japanese yakuza).
Historically, marks were often tattooed on criminals to distinguish them from the rest of society, giving the art of tattooing a bad rap. Men with tattoos are not permitted to complete their mandatory military service and having a tattoo can easily be grounds for employment refusal – or even, in some cases, dismissal. Lawmakers consider it a public health violation and the corresponding sentence applies: fines and possible lifetime imprisonment.
Korean tattoo
Nevertheless, tattooing remains an underground operation and is available safely, albeit pricey, in several alleyway parlors scattered around Seoul. The trick to finding a place is either scouring the Internet, talking to Koreans who have gotten tattoos, or meandering one of the subculture hotspots – districts like Itaewon and Gangnam that hosts many foreign businesses, or hip college districts like Idae (Ehwa University) and Hongdae (Hongik University).
Tattoo Korea is one foreigner-friendly parlor where most of the artists, as well as the ink, are imported directly from the United States. More local are Tattoo Mania in Mokdong, Bloody Ink in Hongdae, and Hyun Tattoo in Daegu city.
Be aware that if you are planning to work in South Korea, the taboo is still strong and you will find no support if you are “discriminated against” for having visible tattoos.
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About the Author: Tiffany Zappulla
Tiffany Zappulla is VagabondJourney.com’s Korea correspondent and travel tech reviewer. She pinched pennies throughout college, sacrificing parties, treats, and occasionally even food so she could start traveling to foreign lands. So far she’s toured Scotland, Spain, and Japan (twice) on a budget, and spent three years living in South Korea actively engaged in the culture and lifestyle. Aside from her qualifications in ESL, Tiffany does other freelance writing and odd jobs. She is currently living the broke American life for awhile before deciding on her next adventure. Connect with her on Google+. Tiffany Zappulla has written 31 posts on Vagabond Journey. Contact the author.
1 comment… add one
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September 16, 2011, 5:29 am
LinkI’m living in S Korea (just arrived to teach) and will be getting my other arm half-sleeved while here once I get paid…I am in the process of writing something about the tattoo culture here too. It’s interesting to say the least. I am in a small city and get super odd looks all the time and questioned if I’m in a gang but then when I’m in Seoul only two hours away no one cares at all. I let you know when it’s written and will be in contact!
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