7 Essential Tips You Must Know Before Getting a Tattoo in Seoul

Planning to get a tattoo in Seoul? Here are seven essential tips from an experienced local tattoo artist to help you prepare for a smooth and satisfying experience in the city's vibrant tattoo scene.
7 Essential Tips You Must Know Before Getting a Tattoo in Seoul

7 Essential Tips You Must Know Before Getting a Tattoo in Seoul 🇰🇷

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I’m going to share some essential tips you need to know before getting a tattoo in Seoul.
  • Hey! I'm a tattoo artist with 7 years of experience working in Seoul, South Korea
  • Following these tips will make your tattoo experience much more satisfying on Seoul, South Korea!
@surfboy_handpoke, Seoul, South Korea
@surfboy_handpoke, Seoul, South Korea

1. Don’t Stress About Studio Hygiene 🏥

  • Tattoo artists in Seoul, South Korea generally work in clean and sanitary environments.
  • If a tattoo artist or studio has more than 1,000 followers on Instagram, you can trust that their hygiene standards are likely up to par.
 
@tattooist_doy, Seoul, South Korea
@tattooist_doy, Seoul, South Korea

2. Understand Pre- and Post-Tattoo Care 🌿

  • Taking care of your tattoo is crucial even after the session is over.
  • I recommend getting a tube of "Bepanthen" ointment—it’s easy to find at local pharmacies in Korea.
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  • Make sure you're well-informed about aftercare procedures and the healing process before you go in.
@xiael_tattooer, Seoul, South Korea
@xiael_tattooer, Seoul, South Korea

3. Get an Idea of Tattoo Costs 💳

  • Tattoo prices in Korea can vary greatly depending on the design, size, and placement.
  • Typically, you can expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $200 per hour, but it’s important to ask for a quote upfront.
 
@tattooist_snowwhite, Seoul, South Korea
@tattooist_snowwhite, Seoul, South Korea

4. Find the Right Tattoo Artist 🎨

  • Think about the style you’re after and do your research.
  • If you’re unsure, feel free to reach out via email. I’m a tattoo artist with 7 years of experience and can help you find the right match:
    • kitesik@arti.to ←✉️ Email-me
 
@sinma_tattoo, Seoul, South Korea
@sinma_tattoo, Seoul, South Korea

5. Check Korea’s Seasons Before You Go 🍁

  • Korea has four distinct seasons, with temperatures ranging from 86°F to 95°F in summer to as low as 14°F in winter.
  • Make sure to check what season it will be when you visit, and consider how the weather might affect your tattoo and its aftercare.
 
@y_seol.ink, Seoul, South Korea
@y_seol.ink, Seoul, South Korea

6. No Need to Worry About Legal Restrictions 🚨

  • In Korea, tattooing is technically considered a medical procedure, which limits the number of practicing tattoo artists.
  • However, as a customer, you don’t have to worry about any legal issues—just enjoy the experience.
@yanggak_tatt, Seoul, South Korea
@yanggak_tatt, Seoul, South Korea

7. Schedule a Thorough Consultation 💬

  • It’s essential to have a detailed consultation with your tattoo artist before getting inked in Seoul.
  • Clearly communicate your ideas and listen to the artist’s feedback.
  • Start planning at least a month in advance—Korean tattoo shops typically don’t accept walk-ins, so preparation is key.

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If you’re unsure, feel free to reach out via email. I’m a tattoo artist with 7 years of experience and can help you find the right match:
kitesik@arti.to
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This article was written in Seoul, South Korea
 
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