Korea legalizes tattooing by nonmedical professionals after 33-year ban
The National Assembly voted overwhelmingly Thursday to legalize tattooing by nonmedical professionals, ending a decadeslong ban that had criminalized the country’s thriving tattoo industry.
The landmark Tattooist Act passed a plenary session of parliament with 195 votes in favor and seven abstentions out of 202 members present.
Despite the popularity and cultural acceptance of the body art, nonmedical tattooists in Korea have faced potential criminal punishment under the Medical Act since a 1992 Supreme Court ruling classified the practice as a “medical act.”
The move marks a significant legislative shift after 33 years, finally bringing the practice out of the legal shadows.
Under the new law, both tattoos and semi-permanent makeup are defined as “tattooing acts.” It establishes a licensing system, granting exclusive recognition as tattooists only to those who obtain a license.
However, tattoo removal by nonmedical professionals remains strictly prohibited, as does tattooing on minors without parental consent.
To safeguard public health, the law requires all licensed tattooists to undergo mandatory training in hygiene and safety management.
The law will take effect two years after its promulgation. During that transition period, nonmedical tattooists will be allowed to continue working under temporary registration while they obtain their licenses.
