After decades risking arrest, South Korea's tattoo artists step into the limelight
South Korea's tattoo artists are celebrating newfound legitimacy after decades of operating in the shadows. The country's top court recently overturned a ruling that classified tattooing as a medical act, allowing non-medical professionals to legally tattoo. This change follows a long campaign by artists who faced legal risks and societal stigma for their work.
- ▪The South Korean top court has overturned a 1992 ruling that defined tattooing as a medical act.
- ▪Tattooing by non-medical professionals was legalized after a sustained campaign by artists.
- ▪For 34 years, only licensed doctors were allowed to tattoo in Korea, leading to significant legal risks for artists.
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After decades risking arrest, South Korea's tattoo artists step into the limelightJust nowShareSaveAdd as preferred on GoogleLeehyun ChoiSeoulWhen Kim Tae-nam took the stage last Saturday in Seoul, it was a moment he had long been waiting for - the career he had chosen was no longer illegal.He couldn't stop smiling, the relief spilling into his voice: "This was only possible because of our effort, all your sweat and tears. Let's hear it from everyone: Tattoos are art!"The crowd hollered in agreement.
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