The boom in personal expression has been positive for tattoos in Korean society.
Korea, while not quite as conservative as Japan, still carries many negative tattoo connotations, however, their tattoo scene is beginning to flourish with cool design ideas, students and ex-pats, and enthusiasts looking for ink.
In Korean antiquity, tattoos were often used by the superstitious to ward against evil, however, much like in Europe, they became maligned and then used to brand criminals.
Korea is growing a cool contemporary tattoo culture.
As the complexity of designs evolve and more artists choose tattooing as a pursuit, Korean ink will continue to develop, much like the American neo-traditional style has built on old-school ink principles.
The following gallery of top 41 Korean Tattoo Ideas depicts great examples of the cultural shift in ink attitudes and may provide inspiration for your next piece of body art.
1. Cute Tattoo Ideas
2. Delicate Tattoo Art
3. Korean Tattoos Featuring Dragon
4. Tattoo Ideas with Flowers
5. Meaningful Tattoo Ideas
6. Small and Minimalist Tattoo Ideas
7. Tiger Tattoo Designs
Is Korean tattoo culture new?
In Korean antiquity, tattoos were often used by the superstitious to ward against evil, however, much like in Europe, they became maligned and then used to brand criminals.
The boom in personal expression has been positive for tattoos in Korean society.
Korea, while not quite as conservative as Japan, still carries many negative tattoo connotations, however, their tattoo scene is beginning to flourish with cool design ideas and enthusiasts looking for ink.
What are popular Korean Tattoo ideas?
Korea is growing a cool contemporary tattoo culture.
Cute and colorful tattoos and realistic small designs are utilized, but so are tattoos of pets and large inked dragons and tigers.
As the complexity of designs evolve and more artists choose tattooing as a pursuit, Korean ink will continue to develop its base, much like American neo-traditional has built on old-school ink principles.
What do Korean dragon tattoos symbolize?
Korean dragon tattoos cleave very much to the Asian style of concept and design.
Dragons in Korean mythology are primarily benevolent beings related to water and agriculture, often considered bringers of rain and clouds.
They also serve as spiritual protectors of the Korean people.