South Korea Opens Doors to Non-Medical Tattoo Artists After 30-Year Ban Lifts

South Korea Legalizes Tattooing by Non-Medical Professionals SEOUL, South Korea - In a landmark decision, the General Assembly of South Korea passed the Tattooist Act on Thursday, allowing non-medical professionals to obtain licenses and practice tattoo artistry for the first time in over 30 years. This move comes after a long campaign by members of the profession to work without fear of prosecution or harassment. The law change is a significant victory for Lim Bo-ran, president of the Korea Tattoo Federation, who broke down in tears upon hearing the news. "I can't speak because it feels like a dream," she said. "I am truly grateful." The federation had been advocating for this change to ensure that tattoo artists could work safely and without fear of persecution. Prior to the law's passage, anyone offering tattoos without medical credentials faced up to five years in prison or a fine of up to 50 million Korean won (approximately $35,000). According to the South Korea Tattoo Union, at least 50 tattooists received legal support each year between 1992 and now, with many more facing fines. The restriction on non-medical professionals was put in place following a 1992 Supreme Court ruling. However, this move has been widely criticized by the tattoo community as unnecessary and restrictive. The industry has long argued that tattooing is an art form, not a medical procedure, and that trained artists should be allowed to practice without fear of prosecution. The new law will allow non-medical professionals to obtain licenses after completing a training program and passing a certification exam. This move is expected to boost the industry, which has been growing in popularity in recent years. While this change may seem like a victory for tattoo enthusiasts, it's essential to note that tattoos can pose health risks if not done properly. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend that individuals take precautions when getting a tattoo, such as choosing a licensed artist and following proper aftercare instructions. As the industry adapts to this new law, experts warn of potential challenges ahead. "This is just the beginning," said Dr. Lee, a public health expert at Seoul National University. "We need to ensure that these artists are properly trained and equipped to handle any medical emergencies that may arise." The South Korean government has pledged to provide support for tattoo artists in obtaining licenses and training programs. The Ministry of Health and Welfare will also establish guidelines for tattooing practices, including sanitation and hygiene standards. As the industry continues to evolve, one thing is clear: this law change marks a significant shift towards greater freedom and recognition for tattoo artists in South Korea. *Reporting by Bbc.*