K-Media & Tattoo Artists Express Their Gratitude To Jungkook For Paving The Way For Tattoo Legalization In SK After 33 Years

 

 

When the "Tattooist Act" was first proposed in 2021 by lawmaker Ryu Ho-jeong (Justice Party) under the original name "Tattoo Business Act," she cited Jungkook as an example to highlight the limitations of not legalizing tattoos--pointing out how artists were forced to cover them with tape on their bodies as if they were committing a crime.

 

Four years after the bill was submitted to the National Assembly, on September 25, 2025, the "Tattooist Act" was finally passed, legalizing tattooing in South Korea. This law restored freedom, rights, and official recognition since 1992. It is also expected to shift the public's extreme perception of the industry.

 

What is even more remarkable is that Jungkook was immediately named by K-Media as well as tattoo artists after the law was officially passed. In major Korean online news outlets, it was mentioned that BTS' golden maknae paved the way and created a "favorable atmosphere" for the bill to move forward.

 

 

In particular, Jungkook's appearance at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in 2021--with tattoos and a lip piercing--was said to have created a major media stir. Many journalists, commentators, and both Korean and international netizens emphasized the symbolic meaning: Jungkook, representing the younger generation and speaking about the future and aspirations at a global political forum, proved that outward details (tattoos, piercings, dyed hair, etc.) do not determine a person's value or character.

 

Not to mention, he performed at UNGA, received the Hwagwan Cultural Medal from the Korean government, stood alongside the President of South Korea, entered the White House, and appeared at world-class events!

 

Even with a full sleeve tattoo on one arm, that did not stop him from donating large sums to charity every year, being source of comfort and strength to millions of fans worldwide, and serving as a role model inspiring young people to keep striving...

 

 

Moreover, tattoo artists themselves have expressed gratitude to Jungkook for bringing a "rebirth" to the industry. Andy (a YouTube creator specializing in tattoos) once noted that Jungkook not only helped society view in their profession more positively but also changed their own perception of tattoos--from a more "conservative" mindset to seeing them as a form of art and self-expression.

Specifically, after analyzing the meaning behind the idol's tattoos, he said, "By showing that he has a tattoo, he broke the bad perceptions about tattoos" and ended with, "Thank you, Jungkook."

Meanwhile, Tachi (from Godo Tattoo), shared that Jungkook had more of his tattoos with confidence, influencing fans to become more open toward tattoo art. This helped with the profession being seen more positively and gained popularity in society.

 

It is worth noting that for decades, tattoos in Korea were considered illegal, with people who had them associated with crime, gangs, or poor morals. Particularly from 1992 until before the new law was passed, only licensed medical doctors were allowed to tattoo, while professional tattooists (without medical degrees) were considered criminals.

 

Most operations were underground in secret studios, with artists constantly facing legal instabiity. Tattooed individuals were stigmatized: struggling to find jobs, sometimes barred from military service, and in many cases even banned from spas, pubic baths, or gyms. Celebrities had to cover their tattoos on television or in front of audiences.

 

Jungkook has played an important part in helping tattoo artists and tattoo lovers finally step into the light. Fans expressed immense pride, responding enthusiastically.

 

 

ARMYs comments:

 

➖ This picture of Jungkook being used to illustrate such an important decision for tattoo artists in Korea says a lot about the impact he and his tattoos have the acceptance of that art in Korea. From the first moment he said he wanted to get one until now. What a journey!!

 

➖ Jungkook helped shift the narrative--quietly, boldly. He showed his tattoos even when it meant hiding them on air or facing outdated views. These days, they shine in full color. We love everything about him. We celebrate him. His influence knows no borders.

 

➖ Jungkook is the real trend setter, the real influencer... if JK does it then it must be okay

 

➖ So glad to know that someone who has this mindset is the kind of person doing Jungkook's tattoos because he doesn't only care about his art, but also JK's art and his individual self. Glad to know he's in really good hands

 

➖ This is actually makes me cry because tattoo are such a beautiful form of cultural art and hearing his tattoo artist suggest incorporating it in Jungkook's identity as an artist is so heartwarming? Like these are the moments when u know they're surrounded by good people

 

➖ Thanks to Jungkook's courage! He's breaking taboos, shattering norms and challenging traditional K-pop idol stereotypes. He's truly paving the way. Thank you Jungkook!

 

➖ As always, Jungkook paving the way, quetly breaking cultural barriers... the power and influence of JK is unmatched!

 

➖ Jungkook is truly inspirational. He makes impossibilities to possibilitie dreams and hopes to realities negativity to possibilite he is just love