Tattoos in South Korea are often small and discreet, with many people getting them in less visible areas. Unlike Western tattoo culture, which emphasizes larger, more elaborate designs, tattoos are still considered a significant cultural taboo in South Korea. As of October 23, 2021, tattooing is illegal unless practiced by a licensed medical doctor. The Korean word for tattoo is munshin, meaning “letters engraved on the body”. Despite this, there are an estimated 20, 000 tattooists in Korea, and many celebrities display tattoos on social media.
However, tattoos are often covered or pixelated on public broadcasts to avoid offending audiences. Men with big tattoos are often associated with gangsters, and they may face harassment or rejection from hotels or other establishments. Despite this, there seems to be no much stigma associated with tattoos in South Korea.
South Korean law permits only licensed medical practitioners to open tattoo parlors, and only the army prohibits tattoos. People can get tattoos after serving in the military. Tattoos were once considered unacceptable in Korean society and sometimes popular in some criminal groups, but they are now more socially acceptable. A 2021 Gallup poll found that 81 of Koreans in their 20s and 60 of Koreans in their 30s and 40s are in favor of lifting tattoo restrictions. Many Korean men who have tattoos are even denied from mandatory military service, adding to the stigma that tattooed people are “abnormal”.
Tattooing is not banned outright, but tattooing without a medical license is prohibited. Under a ruling since 1992, tattooing without a medical license can result in fines of up to $40, 000 or even imprisonment.
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| What do people in South Korea think about tattoos? | In Korea, facial tattoos are generally not considered culturally acceptable. Here’s a breakdown of the reasons why: Traditional views:. | quora.com |
| How popular are tattoos in Korea? Growing up my parents … | Traditionally, tattoos of dragons, tigers, 도깨비 (demon/monsters) and carp, primarily in blue and red colors were associated with organized … | reddit.com |
| Tattoos in South Korea: Are They Illegal? | Many of the views regarding tattoos in Korea are not upheld by law but rather by the social norms and pressures that were established for many … | madrabbit.com |
📹 The Reality Of Living with Tattoos In South Korea
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📹 What do Koreans think of TATTOOS?
We went on the streets of Seoul to find out what people think of tattoos. #tattoos #korea #streetinterview Support our ‘EXPLAINED’ …
I worked in Korea with many government officials in a professional setting for around 6 years, and never received any hate for my tattoos. However, I did almost get kicked out of a Buddhist temple that I was given the opportunity to stay at for a few weeks. One of the monks reported to a lead figure that I had tattoos when I changed into their clothing, and it was such an eye opening experience for me. Luckily, I was able to convince them that they were only “fashion” tattoos and nothing gang related, and I was allowed to stay. At the end of my stay there, a monk I had grown close to actually gave me a suggestion for a future tattoo, after he learned about me. Other than that, I mostly received compliments on them! Getting tattooed there was also such a unique experience. And I agree, it was farrr cheaper than any of my tattoos from America.
The guy who emigrated to the US said really wise words. If people avoid you because of the tattoos then it means that you don’t need them in your life anyway!! I’m still a minor but when i turn 18 i want to get tattoed, i’ve been thinking about it for years actually… i love tattoos and the people that really care about me won’t mind 🙂
This reminds me of when I first started getting tattooed in England 20-ish years ago when it was still frowned upon to have a lot of tattoos, lots of stares and judgment about “how you’ll regret them”, “you’ll never be hired for a job” etc, and now years later it’s completely commonplace (although you do still get the occasional comment). It’ll be the same with Korea too, especially with the rise of their idols and influencers openly displaying tattoos in public.
I’m heavily tattooed and spent almost 2 months in Korea both in cities and rural areas and I actually didn’t have any negative interactions about them. Only 2 people even approached me about them and it was a positive interaction. Oddly enough I’ve had more negative interactions here in the US. Of course my experience is purely based on being a fairly quiet soft spoken foreigner, so take it with a grain of salt.
My wife and I came to Korea with no tat about 2 years ago. Now we are heavily tattooed. People do look a bit more and I even had an old woman come and harass me once but it seems like most people don’t really care. The most hypocritical thing is that Korean people get all the cosmetic surgeries they want and are praised for it but I’m judged for inking art onto my skin. Even permanent makeup or scalp tattoos are normal here which is quite strange tbh.
My korean boyfriend and I both have tattoos, he has some on his neck so i was expecting a lot of looks and/or comments while i was visiting there. I was surprised it only happened once, and it was an older lady who kind of jokingly said “your mother must be so happy/proud”. He also has no problem finding jobs in kitchens and bars and usually the owners are old ladies :’) I don’t think people are as judgy anymore as they once were
I love the innocence of how at 05:04 the girl explains how the grandma on the subway took out a wetwipe…but the subtitle says ‘she took out a whip…’ 😆😆😁😁😁 The two girls interviewed from 00:45 are lovely and they suit their tattoos. DJ Drako is 😍😍 I love pple with them as it adds character.. and for me personally it makes guys visually interesting…and many tattoos are so beautifully designed. 👍👍👍 Of course I still love pple whom don’t have any!! 😁🤗❤️❤️. I just appreciate body art. Interesting interview thou, good job Jerry.
As Korean, we go to sauna quite often. Back in the 1990’s there were bunch of real gang whose back is covered with crazy dragon tattoos. They also go to sauna and it was quite unpleasant experience because they do shitty thing what makes people uncomfortable. That’s why when someone see you covered with ink a lot, it’s embarrassing. Of course judgement is wrong and I’m trying not to be, but frankly speaking I’m still kinda scared even though I’m not gonna stare at people who has inked.
I’m pretty covered from chest to fingers / legs etcetc I went to Korea last September for 3 weeks (my 3rd time 1st and 2nd time I barely had tattoos ) So going this time being heavily tattooed and black actually I thought I would get stares and judgement this time compared to the first 2 times I went when I had barely any !! it’s was a great trip and comfortable as usual !! I even got 2 tattoos whist I was there !! I defo saw more tattoos on people this time so I think it’s becoming more acceptable
I live in America and I get these same reactions towards having tattoos when I go to the southern states. I was over in SC for a business trip and was out on a lunch break getting coffee. I walked into the shop and immediately saw this elder lady’s jaw drop when she saw my tattoos ( I have two half sleeves + more), and then she quickly looked away and wouldn’t make eye contact. Other than the owner of the shop (who was younger and really nice), the rest of the customers stole glances at me and wouldn’t make eye contact. It was a really interesting experience since tattoos are widely accepted in the state I live in and I often get the opposite reaction where people will come up to me and tell me that they like my ink. 😅
I love tattoos. Asian men inked up are super hot😻🫶😽😘🥵 what’s crazy to me about South Korean culture is pot is looked down but being an alcoholic isn’t. Huge drinking culture down there. Even in the west alcoholism isn’t a good thing. Mental health is another issue that tragically gets a bad rap. They need to look into that as a society and encourage each other to seek help and being accepting without judgement. This includes treatment like medicine.
the moment Jerry went “it is sexy” was so cute. also, I once spent a month in my hometown (Shupashkar) in 35+ degree heat and crazy humidity, wearing long everything to hide my tattoos from my grandparents. Normally, I live in London & even here people on public transport literally stare at the mountains I have tattooed on my lower neck.
American and got my first tattoo here in Korea. Found the place by an Instagram profile, specifically after searching for shops that were willing go do foreigners and made arrangements on Facebook messenger. After having been asked when I applied for a job in Korea if I had any tattoos or piercings(ears pierced shortly after birth&unconcealable) and witnessing a co-worker being forced to wear long sleeves to work even during the sweltering summer months due to having a forearm tattoo, I chose to get the tattoo on my upper back. I have only ever intentionally showed the tattoo to close friends, but occasionally my shirt has fallen off my shoulder and kids and adults at work ask in shock “You have a tattoo?!” I hurry to hitch my shirt back on my shoulder and insist I don’t, because while my place of employment tolerates my pierced ears, a tattoo would make too many tongues wag.
Tattoos (when they are high-quality) are one of the forms of Art, period. It is so wild when people say they are uncomfortable being near people with tattoos. It is more wild if a person with tattoos will hide them to make others feel comfortable. It is self-denial/self-hate and subconsciously agreeing with the stereotypes for me. Personally, it is hard to find a tattoo artist with a style I like in Korea. There are many small or thin-lined tattoos (and some lack quality for me..) but I need someone with a rich, unique style. I found a couple of artists but their prices were ridiculously, inadequately high. I have quality tattoos and I got them for an adequate price for the size and the design. I guess I will get my next tattoo when I travel abroad.
I visited Korea in 2019, and I have several tattoos. I was only there a short time (1 month) but I did not have any negative reactions. I had Koreans compliment my tattoos, telling me how pretty they were. Even older ladies. I was surprised. I met a few Koreans with tattoos also, and they were so happy to show them to me. It was nice.
I think this is what I like about Bali, I’m from the western part of Indonesia and decided to live in Bali since a few years ago. When i got my first tattoo and still living in the capital, I still got a lot of judge stares. But in Bali, sooo many people get tattooed, to the point it’s not something special. Tattoos are seen as simply art. So no one really give a damn whenever someone with tattoos walks by. Love it.
I’m heavy tattooed and lived in Korea on and off also and people was pretty nice even old people get curious and ask me questions, I never felt like someone stare me in a bad way ( at least i din’t notice). It’s true some people get kinda in shock, but now is more common see people heavy tattooed in Korea also.. But let’s talk about the quality of ink also, isn’t the same get tattoos pretty bad done or dark ones than someone who get a really nice one like as a piece of art. Quality and the way you wear it sais a lot!
omfg the world is so small ahah i was like..chanel looks familiar and when she said she’s from switzerland i was like omg. i’m from the same town as her, have seen her occasionally but mostly know her from social media because if you are into tatts and are from zurich, switzerland you know of her. Didn’t expect to see her here haha
I am surprised people feel like they are being treated or perceived differently in Korea – I do not know of a country that does NOT have stereotypes around tattoos/body modifications. Koreans thinks of tattoos just like any other people/ethnic group/race/nationality around the world. You will find people that accept you with your body modifications and people that do not, regardless of nationality.
I have a full sleeve and whenever I visit Korea, I wear long sleeve shirts… even in the summer. Yes, as an artist, it is sort of a self-censorship but it’s a personal preference and making those around me feel more comfortable. You can take the guy out of the collective mentality, but you can’t take the collective mentality out of the guy… at least in my case.
Im from australia where tattoos are more socially accepted and im tattoo’d whole body and being in korea, I’ve seen more people that’s heavily tattoo’d then back in australia 😂 also everyone there that does have tattoos have really cool and good quality ones, korea does have the best tattoo artists in the world
I thought it was no longer illegal in South Korea. I know it’s very much looked down upon and those who are artists eg actors, singers are not supposed to have tattoo’s and if they do have them will often be asked to ‘Cover them up’ when they appear on TV. However there is a 7 member South Korean Band that is now a global super stars that all have at least one tattoo. One member sporting a full sleeve and his hand is also Tattooed. He’s the ambassador for Calvin Klein and his tattoo sleeve is clearly shown. Only once has he had to try and cover his hand tattoo while at an Televised Music Award Show. So I it’s pretty clear that perceptions are changing regrading Tattoos especially among the younger generations.
I have a fair number of tattoos, living in the suburbs of chicago I don’t usually hear anything about it from anyone : but I was at a Japanese restaurant, and the owner came up to me and said that my tattoos would mean I am associated with the mafia in Japan . I didn’t ask his opinion, but he was clearly judging me . I laughed .
(Posting this here too so that people who want tattoos but are scared of being judged will see this and hopefully be inspired to ignore ignorant people) Ummm… You can’t force someone with mental health issues to stay single because that’s basically saying they don’t have the right to, due to being ill. In a nice way Unless medically for their safety. And you can’t ASSUME that all people who are tattooed are bad or suffer with mental health problems because of bad experiences you had. I have a full body of tattoos and I DON’T have any mental health problems, I’m just inspired by art and have things that I’ve taken a liking to… so why I’m in that category I don’t know😅 and no I don’t regret getting them, I carefully planned what I wanted and I’m happy and I look after them too. So before you get a tattoo carefully take the time to decide what design you want and placement, don’t just jump in guns blazing because you will regret doing that. Ps your tattoo doesn’t have to have meaning you can look at a painting and be inspired to have something similar to that design. Also research the aftercare because that can ruin your tattoo especially the sun…it will fade. I’ve never had anyone come up to me or walk away from me in public, demanding to know if I have mental health problems just because of a group of sheep going around assuming and saying not some but all tattooed people are bad.. because of X Y and Z… one assumption dose not fit all. If anything I’ve had people run up to me asking me what inspired me to have a John wick tattoo, alien isolation tattoo and who my artist was.
I live in Japan and almost the same story as korea . Here they don’t allow you to enter certain places like gym, Onsen and i public pools. I’m heavy tattoo wit irezumi wich is the traditional Japanese style that’s the one japanese are scared of because it has a negative connotation. Even though i live here for 16 years i never had any big problem s as long as you cover them up. I the west people think tattoo and japanese irezumi are the same but once you live here you will see there are big difference.
I think that delinquint/thug sterotype is fairly common when it comes to tatoos. There are still plenty of the older generations in America who feel that way. Everything from prison tats to motorcycle gangs. TBF, those are a thing, but I think Gen X and younger are more inclined to see it as a personal form of expression and/or art.
I am a Korean guy and pretty sure that I know people’s perception. cannot say every detail here. But one thing is sure. Whether young or old, they basically never want their partners to get their bodies tatooed much, especially big ones on back and body. (these really seen as kinda disease except for some minority) small tatoos around arms or feet are okay and can be accepted. but that is all. it is ony that interviewees are being considerate and reluctant to reveal the inner true thoughts lest they should offend the people who got tatoos in their bodies.
It’s only legal when you get tattoos by dermatologist, but there’s almost none who practice such things. It’s illegal public broadcasting websites openly showing entertainers’ tattoos. I concede it’s Confucianism which is sacrophobic and hypocritical in matters of bodily experiences such as sex for fun or tattoos. Korean society is very conservative and collective. Your body is constantly judged and mentioned by everyone around you. A man walking shirtless? It can be a crime.
cuz back then, tatoo was only for ganmembers in Korea. of course older generations look at ppl with tatoo not in a postive way. those perspectives are changing now and younger generation are very open to it. i wanted to have one at 20. but failed due to expensive cost😂 anyway, it all depends person by person. yes. still foreigners are accepted in different standard for sure.
People who have zero tattoos or any kind of piercings, scare me. Why wouldn’t you make a tattoo? Even if you not gonna agree with the idea you tattooed Life is short af and all we basically doing is working until we 65 years old. Isn’t that boring? Make some art on yourself express yourself somehow. It doesn’t have to be tattoos But dress normal have no tattoos and just wake up to go to work ? Booooring
You gotta admit it’s pretty ironic that most of asia were fully civilized when all of Europe were literally still cavemen yet they’re so culturally behind today. Did you know Japan has ONE local black celebrity? Google him. The sample comedian I’m thinking of will come up. Way less than 1% mary outside their race. And what about the full on uyghur genocide in China? We (well, most of us) think of “nationalism” as a pejorative but most of Asia never thought of any other way. In fairness Vietnam is in the top three best places on earth to live.
My message to S Koreans dont let the western culture of tattoos ruin your culture by tatooing. Tattoos is boring now. Everyone has it. In my Culture Africa is not accepted either. Foreigners have your culture but dont go and influence other countries. South Korea has a respected culture and modesty. Try and keep it.
I find it hilarious how cringe this article is, I’ve been tattooing for 11years now, and whenever I talk to people from Korea, I get completely different talk and stories. Not necessarily what is being said,maybe more about the how… I love that tattooing and tattoos have become so big, its content now, not substance anymore. But what do I know.
Accepting and not accepting tattoos does not mean that a society is an open society or not. Tattoos in Korea began as a means for criminal groups to strengthen their solidarity or intimidate their opponents. Therefore, in the minds of Koreans, tattoos have a strong negative factor. The history of tattooing as a fashion culture started in Korea is not long. Of course, younger generations have different ideas about tattoos. I think it is wrong to just speak according to one’s feelings without trying to understand the culture of a country.
We should appreciate our body as it is the most beautiful given by the Creator. I know that many prisoners do it in the prison. I mean the tattoos may show that our spirit is imprisoned. Of course, sometimes it could be neccessary for some medical reason. But we need to work on making our character and heart beautiful not the body…A neighbor with three children had tatoos because it was modern fashion. It came into my mind that it s because today s world had turned into a big prison with wars, criminal behavior and so on…
Tattoos doesnt mean easy to get, but it 100% means you have had sexual affairs. No one has a tattoo and is a virgin. However, the idea that Koreans perceive people with tattoos as gangsters is a poor misjudgment is not fair also because a lot of “yangachi” in korea have tattoos and instilled fear in the culture. For it to be Foreigners and be judged is a bit different. Happy to see tattoos becoming more mainstream, but this is a message to the artists in korea: know how to place your art on the body of another human wearing it for life, and stop following trends just to make money because people are trying to trust you.
Back in the day, a tattoo would symbolize “individuality”… But nowadays, NOT having a tattoo symbolizes individuality much more than someone having one. I see people with tattoo’s more like sheep or followers of the status quo that cannot think for themselves. A lot of people also use tattoo’s to cover up the fact that they aren’t as “strong” or as “tough” as they appear to be. If anything, the majority don’t realize that it’s seen as more of a billboard advertising their mental issues. My ex has a tattoo of a stickman with a bubble that says “where’s the cookie for my milk??” and I told her that the tattoo she chose is going to expose her mental state and advertise herself as being unstable… and of course, her response to my advice proved me right. Now 15 years later she deeply regrets getting such a ridiculous tattoo and she cannot keep a relationship because the tattoo symbolizes her low IQ.
I love the way you interviewed 3 different generation people for this. 😃 Though how liberal we are in India these days, even a small tattoo on a girl is viewed negatively mostly wondering if the girl has a skin problem. It used to be that in olden times, people used to tattoo themselves to hide their skin bruises or other marks so, that idea still lingers around here in India. Although it’s not the same as blurring it out in TV shows or elsewhere, we show it off with pride if it’s on a male or female celebrity alike😆 I thought in K-pop it was pretty bold of Taeil, from BlockB to get a neck tattoo, and I love every bit of it. ❤
This is basically the same thinking as in the US then. Its also funny how no one can answer how much is too much. I find the idea of preserving what your parents gave to you honorable. That’s a good reason not to if its a value in your life. On the other hand I always find it a bit amusing how people seem to think big tattoos or a lot of tattoos means the person either put less thought into having them or they mean less to them. Kind of upset that I couldn’t think of questions when you asked on twitter but now I can. Like what do they think of cultural tattooing like the Maori and other cultures do? And would they be able to overcome prejudices if a person had a lot of tattoos but were otherwise likeable? Ah well.
I’m a Korean Australian with tattoos who also wants to get into tattooing and it’s really created a rift between my parents and I. My dad has expressed the whole, “You shouldn’t “disrespect” the body that your parents “gave” you” and it’s so rich, considering that Korea has a really bad alcoholism/toxic drinking culture and smoking problem.
I am a heavily tattooed, 30 year old, female. Also a foreigner (I am a first generation American, but of Korean descent) professor here in South Korea. The stigma is definitely here, but I luckily have not received any outright hate or disrespectful comments. I get some looks on the streets in the summer time when I am wearing short sleeve tops and skirts/shorts, but most of it is out of curiosity. I get asked questions quite often by the older generations about them. Only issue, much to my mothers concern (and all the moms out here), steady relationships are difficult since most guys do not want to bring a girl to meet his parents that has a sleeve and some leg tattoos. I see this being the biggest concern with parents, since they want their children happy, married, with grandchildren for them. My parents are totally against my tattoos by the way, they have just grown to accept it – being that I am a grown adult, who had a great education, multiple degrees, and steady jobs…..they think that will help ease the public’s view off me. Hopefully as time passes, things will change and people will be a bit more open minded – I’ve seen it happen just within the last few years. Ps….love all your articles!
The “stigma” on tattoos doesn’t just reflect on Koreans “Sideways glancing” at them and “Shunning” them,here in Australia you still get funny looks being tattooed. Sometimes it’s just people looking hard to see what they are, other times they shake their heads in front of me, other times they don’t care. I only have 2 and have gone through that. Employers are okay if you wear long sleeves, some embrace it, same with piercings still the same looks and bad reactions. So it’s anywhere, Not just Korea!
This is really interesting, i’m thinking of getting one myself… i didn’t know they blur the tattoos, it seems to me that (apparently) young people in korea are too influenced by TV and celebrities… also the respect for their parents always amazes me, i’m from argentina and i think most of young people wouldn’t even stop to think if their parents like it or not, if someone came to me and asked me what my parents would think about me getting a tattoo or my boyfriend having one, i would honestly have to say i don’t know and it doesn’t really matter cause they don’t have a say in it. Even though our cultures are different i really enjoy learning about it, i try to be openminded but of course sometimes i fail, i have come to learn that nothing makes sense without a context (social, cultural and political). We have to know where different views come from and try to understand other cultures better instead of just judge them.
I’m a young woman who had almost a complete sleeve, and will have a second sleeve in the future. All still coverable with long sleeve shirts. And my upper back is tattooed, along with my inner ankles. Almost done with my bachelors and currently work in medical. Kind of sucks that some countries still heavily judge us, especially Japan. I don’t care how many tattoos a man has, as long as he’s a good and hardworking person. It’s a form of expression, or tells a story, and some if not many may be sentimental. Will it fade over time? Yes but it can be retouched or covered up with something else. The world and our skin is a large canvas. ❤️
Fact: In South Korea, it is generally considered that people with tattoos are anti-social individuals who violate social norms and are criminals, gangsters, or juvenile delinquents. Korean law allows professional doctor to open tattoo parlors and it is not illegal to have tattoo. Only the army prohibits tattoos. People can have tattoo after serving in the military.
I grew up in a tattoo studio. I remember my dad always picking me up from middle school with his motorcycle and be drove to his friend studio and I study there and made homework. I always watched how he made that tattoos and I was allowed to do a couple myself. People knew me there and the first time I made one I was 8 I think. It was so cool
I actually wanted to go through the screen and personally tell them, that to have tattoos, you don’t need to look “bad” or “fierce” and such. Getting a Tattoo is a way of expressing yourself. I have tattoos too but i don’t look “badass” to begin with and i never once thought i had to look a certain way to get them. It’s a form of art, just instead of putting it on the wall in your room, you engrave it into your body and in the end it’s Your body and only yours so it’s up to you if and what you put on it. I get people might think it makes you look badass or that people do it to become more “cool” and yes, it does increase your self esteem (well,at least it did with me) but that’s not because the look of tattoos is badass but because you put something on your body that you love and it will end up making you love your body too 😊
Wow, it’s so different there! Blurred out tattoos? I never heard of that! I grew up perusal people with tattoos on tv I never thought somewhere else they would cover it. That’s quite interesting. I would love to get one, but I have a low resistance to pain and I hate needles but I have no problem with people who get them, except maybe in the face, that’s a no-no for me.
The stigma doesn’t surprise me since it used to be like this here in the States back in the day. Like 20+ years lol. But the culture shock is finding out Korean TV blurs them out? I didn’t know that. People in the military can even have them here to an extent (be able to be covered so no neck or hand). There are also some police departments that allow sleeve tattoos on their officers. Craazy.
in my country a lot of teens have tattoos and a lot of teens learn themselves how to tattoo and do piercing as well. my mom wasnt againts it at all, and my grandmother actually wanted one but was always scared to get one, and when she heard im getting one she went with me and we both got one lol. also my dad always had tattoos so in my family it was fine. and my dad actually was in a gang when he was younger lol
I used to think it was weird that tattoos are perceived a certain way in S.Korea, however I am an outsider and have not been brought up in their culture. I kinda understand why tattoos may have a bad reputation and are stereotyped (mainly by older generation) If I was brought up in that sort of culture and environment, I guess its kind of natural to think a certain way, however everyone is different and thinks differently about tattoos (e.g. how Asians are stereotyped by Hollywood films) I do love that they look out for children, I think that is great
1:10 Lol. Ouch. That actually kinda stung considering how I bad I am at math. But it’s not that I choose to not study. I honestly just don’t really know how. Also, couple tattoos are are a tricky business. If you insist on couple tattoos, try to stick to symbolism. Don’t do names & definitely don’t do portraits.
AHA NOT ME DRAWING ON MY ARMD FOR THE LAST 4 YEARS from middle (7th grade) to 10th (sophomore year) and my patents getting mad at me thinking I’d get in poisoning. It was obviously to convey the message I wanted tattoos when I turned 17. I wanted to get 4 more peircings on my ears (two on each side)and dye my hair. I dont have to look at other people to get inspired. I currently have two peircings now. My mom has tattoos but she isnt my inspiration. I just know I will feel like a greater version of myself like that
Small tattoos are considered fashionable, and some of them are really pretty and meaningful, unlike those that gang members had in the past. If the person explains what those tattoos mean to them, then i will be able to accept it. If they simply tattooed themselves on impulse then i think it really reflects their personality as well, like they may be easily influenced by the factors of their external environment instead of thinking twice first.
I personally don’t think they should be blurred on tv unless they contain explicit or offensive language or images. They kept mentioning kids being influenced, do the parlors not enforce an age limit restriction? I know that they are technically operating illegally, but I would assume they wouldn’t tattoo minors. It appears many cultures have some form of stigma and prejudice against tattoos. Here in the US tattoos are much more accepted publicly. However, I do think prejudices exists in the US to a degree. I feel that where a tattoo is placed on the body can be factor of whether that person is stigmatized. Prejudice can also be seen with the preconceived notion of “gang” tattoos vs. simply “artistic” tattoos. My only problem with getting a tattoo is the idea of being a wrinkly old lady with tattoos on my flabby old lady skin! 😂
I think Korea needs to legallize tattoos first and educate more about them so they don’t get shitty tattoos and tattoo artist can have proper sanitized spaces and supplements, better inks, machines and aftercare products. Once they get educated and understand that now is art and are many styles they can get, they would change their mindset like it has been done (and is doing) in many other countries.
Tattoos and piercings are just another form of body modification. They’re on the same scale as cosmetic surgery, hair dye, makeup, scarification and coloured contacts. Some are more permanent than others, some are considered more extreme and how acceptable they are is completely culturally relative. Let people live their best lives guys.
All the people going off on these ppl need to know that every country have a different culture and there is very little diversity for culture in Asian countries as most ppl living in a country belong to same race …it’s true everyone has a right to do whatever they want but at the same time it takes time for mindsets to change …time as in years not months . Also there is nothing wrong with not liking tattoos or not wanting one as long as you you don’t hate/ judge ppl for having them .
I mean you get judged from parents and older people in America for it too sometimes, as a waitress elderly people ask me all the time why I have tattoos and why would I “ruin” my body like that. In my opinion people should be able to do whatever they want to their own boddies if you don’t like it you don’t have to look or comment on it just go about your day
It is strict and SUPER Hygienically Clean here. Everything is Super clean, professional and you HAVE to be 18. Legit ID. Also, don’t these tv/adults know by now that the less you show of something to kids, the more they want it b/c it shows how the adults DON’T want you do have/get it? Reverse Psychology people!
The guy talking about how he doesn’t want them but would do a small couple tattoo for his girlfriend and that he might not like tattoos on a person much but if his spouse or current gf had a lot of tattoos it wouldn’t matter to him because it’s about the person not the image HIS GIRLFRIEND BETTER KNOW HOW LUCKY SHE IS!
Preserving what parents gave you but parents gave double eyelid surgery as graduation gifts.. it may be depends on the parents but this comment tick me off! Just upset that celebrities like Jay Park tattoos blurred on tv. It’s like covering who you are isn’t that insulting. Never mind me just ranting lol
I have no problem with the tattoos thing, people can do whatever with their own body. Personally, I like see tattoos but when they cover a big part of the body uhmmm! well, I don’t like them too much, I know I know, it is art and everything and it’s true, but I don’t know for me, they don’t look so pretty anymore, I just saying that I appreciate the small ones in certain parts of the body. I repeat, it’s my personal opinion, if you like to cover the all body with tattoos and that makes you happy just then be happy.
One thing that i dont like about tattoo is the fact that the person cant donor his/her blood (but tbh i have ganglion/little tumor in my left wrist that is so hard to get rid of, so i cant donor my blood either). And fyi im muslim and my religion is pretty much against it. But when i see other people who arent muslim, i think its okay for them and i never thought that tattoo is a bad thing. If my religion allow me i might get one since i cant donor my blood anyway😂😂😂 (sorry for my poor english:”)
I don’t understand why people with Tattoos are deprived by the society. In my Country too when Elders see youngsters with tattoos they talk ill of them. Its true that not getting tattooed properly may cause severe problems but getting it correctly done is completely alright. Well that’s just my opinion. No offense.
the whole “kids and teens might be influenced and do it” thing sounds so ridiculous to me… where I come from, minors need permission from their parents to get tattoos. but even so, it’s not that cheap or easy to get one done. and if the child likes it then there’s nothing you can do about it, let them have their own likes and dislikes, that doesn’t mean the kid will actually do it. it’s hard for me to understand korean society, they’re too uptight about everything.
to be honest I don’t understand the point of blurring and putting patched on it when you see it was blur or with patched you know they have tattoo. to be honest they don’t want to show tattoo coz it was a bad influence to the younger people and they think younger people will copy it if they think that their people are easily influenced by what they see why more of their show are full of cheating, betraying and violence won’t that influence audience in being cheater and traitor. they care more about physical than characters they shown on most variety shows
So, I couldn’t help but disagree with the guy who thinks Koreans don’t want to “damage” for lack of a better word, what their parents gave them. Korea is known for being the plastic surgery capital of the world. Isn’t that literally changing what your parents gave you? At least with a tattoo it’s still you. It’s just you with art 🙂
It’s funny how South Koreans are very much OK with plastic surgery which can completely change you but when it comes to Tattoos, they often talk about preserving what parents gave you….. Lol like wtf tattoos and piercings are just superficial whereas plastic surgery is permanent….. So what’s the big deal I personally don’t mind tattoos, piercings and I feel like they are just some decorations and a form of fashion
I’m so Sad, i love Korean people and i’m full tattooed, i have two jobs and i study and work so much, i’m sweet girl, and my tattoos don’t not determined who i’m. Just i hope they change these thinkings and stop judge like gangs the people tattooed some day! But i’m so happy because young people its going to right way!
I’m a special education teacher, before that I was a nurse. I have tons of tattoos. The kids love me. My patients loved me. Some of the parents and patients were a little apprehensive about it but they didn’t think much of it after they realized I was a good teacher and nurse. Tattoos don’t mean bad. It’s just a decoration.