We recently had a quick interview with Dareum Lee, who is a tattoo artist from South Korea. Let’s have a look at her responses to our questions.
1. What inspired you to become a tattoo artist and when did you start it as a career?
The tattoo teacher who guided me has become my inspiration. At that time, she was one of the few female tattoo artists in Korea, gaining popularity among many female clients with her thin lines and delicate designs. Her innovative approach has been instrumental in enabling me to challenge myself with new tattoo styles. As a result, I have been working as a tattoo artist since 2018.
2. How many tattoos do you have on your body and what’s your favorite one?
I have 10 small tattoos, and my favorite of them is the little tulip on the back of my hand. It’s a small but huge point, and a lot of customers wanted to see it and copy it.
3. Which is your favorite client tattoo, what was the story behind it, and how much time it took?
I have many of my favorite tattoos, if I had to choose, it would be a gift to my friend! I drew a tattoo of her favorite place for a friend who traveled around the world for two years. It depicts the Parliament building in Budapest with a beautiful night view.
4. What do you do in your free time when not tattooing people?
Since I am a homebody, I prefer to take a good rest by exercising or playing games on my days off. And I always spend time with my family.
5. Why do you think people get a tattoo, even though it’s a painful process?
For the sake of beauty, sometimes a little pain may be involved. Tattooing is one of the means of expressing beauty, combining fashion and art.
6. Who is your favorite tattoo artist?
My favorite tattoo artist is my mentor, ‘seoeontattoo,’ who guided me into the tattoo industry. With her extensive experience, her skill and wisdom are abundant, and she has always been a source of guidance and assistance for me.
7. What are different styles of tattoos do you make?
My tattoo style is a hand-drawn illustration. I draw tattoos that enhance the texture of pencils, colored pencils, or crayons. Some people may think it looks like scribbling, but this is the style I pursue, and what I want to do is transfer the drawing itself expressed on paper to the skin. Of course, there are times when I tattoo the graffiti as is:) Unlike the perfect picture, I think my style can be original and differentiated.
8. Where do you see the future of Tattoos?
The future of tattoos appears to involve continuous innovation in styles, techniques, and technologies. Increasing acceptance and appreciation for tattoos as a form of personal expression may contribute to a more diverse and dynamic tattoo culture.
Advances in tattoo removal methods and ink technologies might also shape the way people approach and engage with tattoos. Additionally, collaboration between tattoo artists and other art forms may lead to new and exciting possibilities in the world of body art.
9. Where do you see yourself in the next 5 years?
In the next 5 years, I envision myself further honing my tattooing skills, exploring new artistic styles, and possibly expanding my reach by collaborating with artists from different regions. I aim to continue participating in guest works globally, connecting with diverse clients, and pushing the boundaries of creativity in the tattoo industry. Additionally, I plan to focus on personal growth, refining my unique tattooing style, and contributing to the evolving landscape of body art.
10. If you get a choice, which celebrity would you like to Tattoo and any specific design?
If the opportunity arises, I would love to tattoo Blackpink or BTS members. Just thinking about it feels like a dream! 😂 I’d like to create cute designs featuring their pets for them.
11. Please share your social handles and how to reach out to get a tattoo.Â
-My Instagram is dareumtattoo. You can reach out to me through the messenger app used in Korea, KakaoTalk, or via direct message (DM) on Instagram for a quick response. Once you contact me, I’ll send you the booking form. Thank you.
