Archive · 25 Sep 2025
South Korea Poised to Legalize Tattooing with New Act
In South Korea, it is currently illegal for anyone but licensed doctors to give tattoos.
This may change soon with the Tattooist Act, which is expected to pass and allow non-medical professionals to get licensed.
This comes after tattoos gained popularity, and acceptance in society.
The act will require tattoo artists to take hygiene courses.
Many people, including celebrities, have tattoos.
If caught, tattoo artists can face jail time and fines.
The new law has bipartisan support.
The Tattooist Act is expected to pass, legalizing tattooing in South Korea.
Currently, only licensed medical doctors can legally perform tattoos.
Illegal tattoo artists face potential prison sentences and fines.
Millions of South Koreans have tattoos, many as cosmetic tattoos.
The new law will require licensed tattoo artists to complete hygiene education courses.
- Who
- Tattoo artists and South Korean citizens
- What
- South Korea is expected to legalize tattooing.
- When
- The Tattooist Act is expected to pass soon.
- Where
- South Korea
- Why
- To reflect evolving public acceptance and allow non-medical professionals to perform tattoos.
- Proposed Legislation
- Tattooist Act
- Current Law
- Tattoos only allowed by licensed doctors
- Penalties for Illegal Tattooing
- Up to 5 years in prison and 50 million won fine
- Tattooist Act Components
- Licensing and hygiene courses
- Grace Period
- Two years after passing
- Estimated Tattooed South Koreans
- Millions
