South Korea's parliament has passed the Tattooist Act, ending 33 years of restrictions that limited tattooing to doctors. The landmark legislation, which takes effect in 2027, introduces a national licensing system. However, until then, tattooing without a medical licence remains technically illegal, and existing prosecutions continue.
The ban dates back to 1992, when the Supreme Court ruled that inserting ink under the skin constituted a medical procedure. For decades, an enormous shadow economy developed, with industry estimates suggesting up to 16 million South Koreans now have tattoos. Despite this popularity, studios often operated discreetly, relying on word of mouth and social media.
Artists describe a culture of secrecy. Hyun Oh, known professionally as Stella, works in Seoul's Itaewon district. 'We'd never share the address until a booking was confirmed,' she said. 'It always felt like creating something beautiful, but in hiding.' Kiljun, another Seoul-based artist tattooing since 2007, said he had been fined once but continued working. 'I never thought this was wrong or criminal,' he said, adding that older generations often regarded him as 'a bad guy'.
The struggle for legitimacy was spearheaded by the Tattoo Union, founded in 2020 and affiliated with a major labour confederation. The group staged protests and lobbied politicians, arguing that criminalisation forced practitioners to work unprotected. The Korean Medical Association opposed legalisation, warning of infection risks and even suggesting 'tattoo stickers' as an alternative.
The new law establishes examinations, training requirements and liability insurance. Tattoo removal and tattooing minors without parental consent remain restricted to doctors. Implementation starts in October 2027, with a two-year grace period for existing practitioners to obtain full licences.
While artists welcome the change, many remain cautious. 'It feels like a new beginning, but still uncertain,' Stella said. Kim Do-yoon, known as Doy, whose prosecution for tattooing a celebrity began in 2019, expressed weary determination. There is no amnesty for past offences, and cases like his continue to work through the courts.
