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South Korea Court Legalizes Non-Medical Tattooing, Artists Celebrate

5/30/2026

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Summary

Story summary

South Korea’s top court overturned the 1992 ruling that classified tattooing as a medical act, legalizing non-medical tattooing.
Over 90 tattoo artists and supporters gathered on a Seoul rooftop to celebrate.
The Tattoo Union said it aided at least 50 tattooists annually and that many more faced fines under the ban.
The health ministry will launch a licensing test for tattooists next year.

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Story summary

South Korea’s top court overturned the 1992 ruling that classified tattooing as a medical act, legalizing non-medical tattooing.
Over 90 tattoo artists and supporters gathered on a Seoul rooftop to celebrate.
The Tattoo Union said it aided at least 50 tattooists annually and that many more faced fines under the ban.
The health ministry will launch a licensing test for tattooists next year.