We recently came across a tattoo artist – Woo from South Korea, who has a unique style of tattoos. We contacted him and did a quick candid interview. Let’s see his responses and some of his great work.
1. What inspired you to become a tattoo artist, and when did you start it as a career?
I started in 2009 while running a piercing shop. I got bored and wanted to explore something more exciting, which led me to tattooing.
2. How many tattoos do you have on your body, and what’s your favorite one?
I have so many tattoos, both big and small, that I’ve lost count! Each one represents a part of my history and has its own story. One of my favorites is a tattoo of the main character from the movie Hedwig and the Angry Inch, which is also one of my favorite films. The tattoo was done by Wan, a talented artist.
3. Which is your favorite client tattoo, what was the story behind it, and how much time did it take?
I love it when clients come up with suggestions I hadn’t thought of before. Collaborating with them often leads to something new and refreshing. It’s a completely different kind of inspiration compared to when I draw alone.
4. What do you do in your free time when not tattooing people?
I spend my free time meditating and organizing my thoughts. I reflect on how far I’ve come, consider what I can do now, and imagine how to turn my ideas into reality.
5. Why do you think people get a tattoo, even though it’s a painful process?
I believe tattoos are a form of self-expression. They encourage people to think deeply about their preferences and serve as a powerful way to showcase individuality. There’s also a sense of accomplishment that comes after enduring the pain.
6. Who is your favorite tattoo artist?
In the past, I followed a few specific artists, but now I find inspiration in every artist I encounter. Rather than trying to imitate anyone, I reflect on the differences between us and learn what I can. Every artist inspires me in their own way by making me ask myself, “What would I do differently?”
7. What are the different styles of tattoos you make?
I enjoy adding a playful twist to what I see. It’s often a mix of humor and reimagining familiar elements in unexpected ways.
8. Where do you see the future of tattoos?
I hope to see a balance between tradition and innovation. I imagine tattoos evolving while still preserving their cultural roots.
9. Where do you see yourself in the next 5 years?
I’ll probably still be traveling and tattooing in different countries. Stay tuned on Instagram to see where I go next!
10. If you get a choice, which celebrity would you like to tattoo and what design?
I’d love to create a tattoo for G-Dragon from Big Bang. His music has brought me comfort and understanding throughout my life. I think a design inspired by his song 봄여름가을겨울 (Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter) would be perfect.
11. Please share your social handles and how to reach out to get a tattoo.
You can easily reach me through Instagram DMs. Feel free to message anytime!
12. Any Thoughts for Your Clients?
I’m always open to diverse ideas. Some of the best results come from collaborating and discussing ideas together. Feel free to share your thoughts—we might create something amazing that neither of us expected!
