In Korea, Are Tattoos Acceptable?

Tattoos are not illegal in South Korea, but getting a tattoo is considered illegal under Korean law. The tattoo is viewed as a medical service and only allowed if the tattooist is also a qualified medical practitioner. This drives artists to operate from their homes and underground tattoo parlors. People with tattoos are generally considered anti-social individuals who violate social norms and are criminals, gangsters, or juvenile delinquents.

The Constitutional Court in Seoul upheld a ban on tattooing on Thursday, confirming South Korea as the only developed country that permits only medical professionals to perform the procedure. Tattooing is technically illegal in South Korea, but the law is not strictly enforced, and many people still get tattoos. The ban on tattoos dates back to the early 20th century and was put in place in 1992 due to fears that decorative body art was associated with criminal and gang activity.

While it is not illegal to get a tattoo in North Korea, it might be difficult to find an artist willing to give you one due to the negative social stigma surrounding it. While certain establishments and institutions reserve the right to make patrons cover tattoos, there are no legal penalties for sporting tattoos in public.

South Korea is the only developed country where everyone except medical professionals is banned from doing tattoos. The tattoo ban was put in place in 1992 and came from fears that decorative body art was associated with criminal and gang activity. Attitudes towards tattoos and people with them are often negative. Tattooing in South Korea is not 100% illegal, nor is it illegal to have a tattoo. While certain establishments and institutions reserve the right to refuse entry for those with bigger-than-15-centimeter (six-inch) tattoos, only medical doctors are legally allowed to tattoo in South Korea.

In conclusion, tattooing in South Korea is not entirely illegal, but it is heavily stigmatized and often forced underground. It is important to understand the laws and regulations surrounding tattooing in South Korea to ensure a safe and respectful environment for tattoo artists and clients.