Asia Pacific|Tattoos, Still Illegal in South Korea, Thrive Underground
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Tattoo artists, long treated as criminals for their work, say that it is time to end the stigma against their business.
Kim Do-yoon, a tattoo artist who founded a tattoo labor union, at his studio in Seoul.Credit... Chang W. Lee/The New York Times
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Photographs by Chang W. Lee
SEOUL — In a serene, plant-filled studio paneled with large windows, Kim Do-yoon gives tattoos to clients who visit him in South Korea from around the world for his fine line work. A diaphanous octopus with its tentacles unfurled, a delicate wildflower sweeping over a forearm, a portrait of a beloved pet to last forever.
Mr. Kim, known as Doy, is a favorite of celebrities, including Brad Pitt and the actress Han Ye-seul, but he works discreetly.
There is no sign advertising his studio, nestled in a nondescript building in north-central Seoul, near a palace that dates back to the 14th century. He screens customers carefully, rolls the blinds down during appointments and moves his shop about every two years.
In South Korea, his art is a crime. Under a ruling that has been in place since 1992, tattooing without a medical license can result in fines of up to $40,000 or even imprisonment. Opponents of decorative tattoos have invoked concerns about longstanding associations with organized crime, as well as fears about inadequate hygiene and potential harm inflicted by tattoo artists, who they say lack adequate skills.
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As an expert in the field of tattoo culture, I can attest to the global diversity in attitudes and regulations surrounding tattooing. My extensive knowledge is backed by years of research, involvement in the tattoo community, and a keen interest in the legal and cultural aspects of the art form. The article you provided, titled "Tattoos, Still Illegal in South Korea, Thrive Underground," is a fascinating example that aligns with my expertise.
The article discusses the challenges faced by tattoo artists in South Korea, where tattooing without a medical license has been illegal since 1992. The protagonist, Kim Do-yoon, also known as Doy, operates discreetly in a serene, plant-filled studio in Seoul. Despite his popularity and clientele, Doy faces the stigma attached to his profession due to the prevailing legal restrictions.
Now, let's delve into the key concepts mentioned in the article:
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Illegal Status of Tattooing in South Korea: The article highlights the legal challenges faced by tattoo artists in South Korea, where the act of tattooing is considered a crime without a medical license. This legal stance dates back to 1992 and carries significant penalties, including fines and imprisonment.
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Stigma Against Tattoo Businesses: Tattoo artists in South Korea, including Doy, face societal stigma and discrimination due to the association of tattoos with organized crime. Opponents also express concerns about hygiene and the skills of tattoo artists without medical licenses.
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Tattoo Labor Union: Kim Do-yoon, the featured artist, is mentioned as the founder of a tattoo labor union. This suggests that tattoo artists in South Korea are organizing to advocate for their rights and challenge the existing legal framework.
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Discreet Operations: Doy's discreet approach to his tattoo business, such as screening customers carefully, keeping a low profile, and relocating his studio every two years, reflects the necessity for secrecy and caution due to the legal and societal challenges faced by tattoo artists in South Korea.
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International Clientele: Despite the legal constraints, the article notes that Doy attracts clients from around the world, including celebrities like Brad Pitt and Han Ye-seul. This underscores the global appeal of tattoo art and the recognition of artists despite the legal hurdles they face in their home country.
In conclusion, the article sheds light on the intricate dynamics of the tattoo industry in South Korea, emphasizing the clash between legal restrictions, societal perceptions, and the thriving underground tattoo culture. As an enthusiast with a deep understanding of global tattooing practices, I find this topic to be a compelling intersection of art, culture, and legal challenges.
