10 Questions with Jooyoung Ko
Jooyoung is a tattoo artist active in Korea and has been working for 11 years this year.
She was born in Seoul, the capital of South Korea, and her parents were always busy working both jobs. So, as a child, she grew up at her grandmother and grandfather’s house in the countryside and was with nature. As a child, she showed patience by raising her concentration for a long time while drawing. Her parents supported her to continue painting, which she loved. She spontaneously entered high school and college for art. After graduating from college, she worked as an art teacher, but she did not have much interest. She wanted to do something more enjoyable and valuable, and in the meantime, she became interested in tattoos. Mountains and fields were familiar playgrounds to her from a young age, and she used to exercise her various imaginations while looking up at the sky. To her, color is a tool for the senses, and she believes that it is the best tool to express subjectivity well and properly communicate the content with others. Tattoos are usually delicate, and a lot of colors are used. She is trying to establish a positive connection between humans and nature and to give customers bright and positive tattoos through various colors.
Jooyoung Ko - Portrait
INTERVIEW
Please, introduce yourself to our public. Who are you, and how would you describe yourself as a person and an artist?
My name is Juyoung, and I am a tattoo artist from Korea. As a person, I would describe myself as passionate, dedicated, and open-minded, always eager to explore new artistic styles and broaden my horizons. As an artist, my work is heavily influenced by my love for nature, with plants and animals often serving as my primary inspiration. I strive to create bright and visually appealing tattoos that not only complement the natural contours of the human body but also allow individuals to express their unique personalities.
When did you first realize you wanted to be a tattoo artist?
I spent roughly 10 years working as an art teacher, but during that time, I grew increasingly restless and sought a more fulfilling and enjoyable career path. My curiosity was piqued when my younger brother got a tattoo, which introduced me to the profession of a tattoo artist. As I delved deeper into the world of tattooing, I found myself increasingly drawn to this captivating career.
Small flowers, color tattoo, 2022 © Jooyoung Ko
And why did you choose tattoos as your form of expression? Do they have a special meaning to you?
I was deeply captivated by the idea of creating lasting art that would remain with individuals for a lifetime, providing them with cherished memories. It brings me immense joy to see clients delighted with their tattoos. Additionally, helping people cover scars or injuries with beautiful designs is a rewarding aspect of my work in numerous ways. For example, transforming an area of pain or insecurity into a stunning piece of art can have a profound impact on a person's self-esteem and confidence. It can also serve as a symbol of resilience, commemorating one's journey and personal growth. This meaningful connection between my art and my clients' lives is what makes my work as a tattoo artist incredibly fulfilling.
What is your artistic background? And how did you develop into the artist you are today?
My artistic background began with a passion for drawing from a young age, which brought me immense joy and satisfaction. My parents played a significant role in nurturing my talent, as they were incredibly supportive and encouraged me to pursue my love for art, providing me with the opportunity to develop and refine my skills.
Colorful flowers, color tattoo, 2022 © Jooyoung Ko
Flowers wrapped around arm, color tattoo, 2022 © Jooyoung Ko
Your tattoos mainly depict natural elements with a very soft style. What are your sources of inspiration?
Plants and animals serve as a rich source of inspiration for my art. I have always been eager to create bright and warm tattoos that resonate with people. My fondness for nature, which began in my youth, has influenced my artistic style and is now reflected in the tattoos I design.
At the same time, in your biography, you mention growing up with your grandparents in the countryside, surrounded by nature. Did this influence your style today?
Growing up with my grandparents in the countryside, I often found myself playing alone, as there were no friends my age nearby. I spent my time interacting with flowers and exploring the soil in fields, which nurtured my love for nature. Drawing became a favorite solitary pastime, allowing me to express my creativity and lose myself in my imagination while gazing at the sky. This deep connection to the natural world continues to inform and influence my designs as a tattoo artist today.
Jasmin, color tattoo, 2021 © Jooyoung Ko
Violet, color tattoo, 2022 © Jooyoung Ko
Speaking of your work, can you tell us more about your creative process? Do you have designs and sketches available, or do you create tattoos based on your clients' requests?
The majority of my clients trust and appreciate my unique artistic style. While they typically provide the general theme or subject matter, I take care of the intricate design details myself. Before proceeding, I present the design to my clients and inquire if they would like any modifications. In most cases, I am able to work with them without making significant changes to the original design.
Korean culture has a mixed relationship with tattoos, as they are becoming more popular but are traditionally frowned upon. What do you think in this regard? And on a general level, what would you like to communicate to the viewers with your work?
While the perception of tattoos has improved considerably compared to the past, Korea still maintains a somewhat conservative view of this form of body art. I believe that tattoos are an artistic medium and a means for individuals to express their unique personalities. I have always been passionate about challenging negative stereotypes associated with tattoos, and as such, I frequently organize events to promote a positive image of the art form. This is also why I gravitate towards creating bright and visually appealing tattoos, rather than heavy and dark designs. My ultimate goal is for people to appreciate tattooing as an art form and a means of self-expression.
Cherry Blossom, color tattoo, 2023 © Jooyoung Ko
Is there anything else you would like to experiment with?
Although my experience has primarily focused on smaller, delicate projects, I am eager to expand my portfolio by working on larger, nature-inspired pieces that are designed to complement the natural contours and flow of the human body.
And lastly, what are you working on now? Do you have any new projects coming up?
I aspire to broaden my exposure to various tattoo styles by working in different countries around the world. Soon, I will be participating in a tattoo festival in Melbourne, where I am also scheduled for a guest appearance. This will provide me with a valuable opportunity to further expand my horizons and enhance my artistic repertoire.
