Based in Seoul, South Korea, Tattoo EL has spent over a decade transforming scars, traumas, and emotions into powerful works of art. Working in the lively district of Hongdae, she has become known for her mastery of black and grey realism and her delicate approach to cover-up tattoos that bring both aesthetic and emotional healing. Today, her clients come not only from across South Korea but also from the United States, Canada, Australia, and Thailand a reflection of the universal resonance of her art.
Hello Mira, where are you from and where are you currently based?
Hello. I am currently based in Seoul, South Korea, and I work in Hongdae, one of the city’s most vibrant districts. I have been working as a tattoo artist for 12 years, and I am now entering my 13th year of professional practice.
What first drew you to tattooing?
In my early twenties, a friend showed me a tattoo they had recently gotten. They were unhappy with the design, and their disappointment sparked my curiosity. With no prior knowledge of tattoos, I found myself wondering, “How could something like this have such serious consequences?” As I began researching online, I discovered a completely new world, breathtaking works and inspiring artists from around the globe. The more I saw, the more fascinated I became. What started as a simple thought, like “I want to inscribe my drawings and turn the body into a living exhibition”, ultimately became the path I chose to dedicate my life to.
How did you develope your style from that moment?
At first, I focused mainly on cute, cartoon-style tattoos. Around my second year, a 20-year-old client came to me with a tattoo he had received as a teenager from an untrained amateur. He was embarrassed and asked if it could be covered. After a long consultation, I decided to take on the challenge. Over the course of a year, I worked to transform the scarred tattoo.
That experience profoundly changed my technical skills, perspective, and mindset.
Since then, I have dedicated myself to studying Black and Grey Realism and the anatomy of the skin, with a special focus on cover-ups. From that moment on, I have accompanied many clients through both artistic and emotional healing, creating tattoos that go far beyond surface appearances.
Your work is often rooted in realism and black & grey, sometimes drawing inspiration from classical art. Does this reflect your personal passions?
Absolutely. I still consider myself a lifelong student. There is so much I do not know, and every encounter with great art or new reference material deepens my passion for learning.
Could you describe your tattoo style more deeply for our readers?
My work is always a balance between my artistic expression and the personality of each client. I particularly enjoy using fine line needles to create soft gradients that convey a natural, profound atmosphere. In cover-up work, I listen closely to my clients’ stories — their traumas, negative emotions, and scars — and design tattoos they can wear with pride for a lifetime.
I aim to create pieces that grow in meaning and beauty the more they are seen.
After more than a decade of experience, I now have the technical freedom to express any idea, transforming emotions and inner stories into tattoos. I don’t see myself simply as someone who tattoos skin, but as an artist who gives form to inner feelings. Some of my works, I believe, carry a subtle, mysterious energy that clients can truly feel.
Do you have a background in art school? Strong drawing skills are clearly central to your style.
I didn’t attend art school, but I’ve loved drawing since childhood. Sketching was my favorite pastime, and through that passion, I naturally developed strong drawing skills.
Do you have a particular subject matter you enjoy most — something that defines your work?
I’m especially drawn to portraits and animals, as they convey both life and soul.
How would you describe the tattoo scene in South Korea today?
Tattoos in South Korea are increasingly being embraced as a way for people to love themselves, celebrate individuality, and express their identity. There is no shortage of incredibly talented artists here. Yet challenges remain, tattoos are still technically illegal under current law. Many in our community are tirelessly advocating for legalization, not for income or fame, but to help transform cultural perceptions. Social attitudes remain divided, but I choose to stay hopeful. I focus on maintaining integrity in my work and contributing positively in my own way.
Finally, do you have a message you would like to share with our readers?
Hello, Tattoo Life readers. My name is Tattoo EL, and I specialize in cover-up tattoos and scar concealment. Moving forward, I hope to share content based on over a decade of research and experience, offering accurate information and connecting with a wider audience.
My goal is not only to produce technically strong tattoos but also to continually refine my style and create deeply meaningful works. Among those reading this, there may be some who will one day sit in my chair — I look forward to that day. Thank you for reading, and my deepest gratitude goes to Tattoo Life for this wonderful opportunity.
