Introduction of 'No Tattoo Zone' in Hotels and Fitness Centers
"Individual Freedom" vs "Creating Discomfort"
Government Moves to Allow Tattoo Procedures by Non-Medical Personnel
Chef Kwon Seong-jun of 'Napoli Mafia' (left), Jungkook of the group BTS (right). [Source=Chef Kwon Seong-jun Instagram, BigHit Music]
As major domestic 5-star hotels and fitness centers introduce 'No Tattoo Zones' that prohibit entry to people with tattoos on their bodies, netizens continue to engage in heated debates on the issue.
Recently, Conrad Seoul included in its usage guidelines for the swimming pool and gym that "customers with excessive tattoos on their bodies that may cause anxiety or discomfort to others may be restricted from entry." Fairmont Ambassador Seoul also stated, "Entry to the swimming pool is restricted if tattoos exceed 15 cm, and those wishing to use the facilities must wear swimsuits or patches that can cover the tattoos."
Not only hotels but fitness centers are gradually adopting 'No Tattoo Zones.' A well-known fitness center in Gangnam listed "refraining from excessive tattoo exposure" as one of the entry conditions. If tattoos are visible on the arms or legs, it is required to wear long-sleeved tops and long pants as a rule.
Some netizens expressed support, saying, "Seeing tattoos covering the body feels unsettling and unpleasant," and "I'm worried children might see and imitate them." On the other hand, some showed negative reactions, stating, "Tattoos are a personal freedom, so banning entry is unreasonable," and "After 'No Kids Zones,' now 'No Tattoo Zones'?it feels too harsh."
In March 2022, when the Constitutional Court ruled that "the current law punishing non-medical personnel for performing tattoo procedures does not violate the Constitution," officials from the Korea Tattoo Artists Association held a related press conference in front of the Constitutional Court in Jongno-gu, Seoul. [Source=Yonhap News]
Meanwhile, under current law, tattooing is considered a medical procedure, and only medical professionals recognized by the state can perform it. Accordingly, tattoo studios operated by non-medical personnel are all illegal, and if caught, administrative actions such as business suspension or closure can be imposed. In fact, the Supreme Court ruled in 1992 that tattooing is a medical act and only medical professionals can perform it.
However, as demand for tattoos increases and social perceptions change, voices calling for "allowing non-medical personnel to perform tattooing" have grown louder. According to data submitted by the Ministry of Health and Welfare to the National Assembly Legislative Research Office in October 2021, there are 350,000 tattoo artists nationwide and 13 million users, with the domestic market size estimated at 1.2 trillion KRW by the Korea Tattoo Association.
In response, the government recently announced that it has commissioned a national exam development research project to open tattooing to non-medical personnel. The final research report will be produced in November, and the results will be reflected in policy establishment, including detailed regulations for the tattoo artist national exam and hygiene and safety management education for tattoo artists.
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