K-Tattoo Design Development Through Tattoo Culture and Analysis of Korean Tattooists’ Works : Utilizing Formative Properties of Ancient Gaya Artifacts

Tattoos have been perceived as a negative image in Korea, despite showing changes in form and meaning throughout the history of mankind. However, as a technique of semi-permanent makeup that is used in various areas of life and recognized as a genre of creative art, legalization is being promoted. This study aims to develop a tattoo design inspired byKorean sensibility, using artifacts from Korea's ancient Gaya culture as the focal point during the global rise of K-beauty. The research used literature reviews and content analysis, with the design based on the results. First, tattooing has existed globally since humanity’s inception, categorized by social identification, shamanic protection, stigma as punishment, and aesthetic decoration, with modern tattooing reflecting fashion trends. Korean tattoos have served as shamanistic and punitive symbols, expressions of love, and tools for divination. However, in the 1970s, they became negatively associated with criminalty. Since the 2000s, pop stars’ tattoos have positively influenced trends, leading to the emergence of K-tattoos in 2010. Second, K-tattoos feature simple, linear designs, typically under 10 centimeters, depicting small everyday scenes, pets, flowers, and plants. They are known for their vivid, saturated colors and utilize watercolor techniques, pointillism, and fine line methods. Conversely, the sculptural qualities of Gaya artifacts, recognized as representative of Gaya, exhibit curves, decorative connections of dotted lines, simplicity, balance, and dynamic shapes. Third, based on the above theoretical considerations and content analysis, the K-Tattoo pattern is planned. The design concept expresses dreams with the softness and delicate sensitivity of time. This study reexamines the sculptural characteristics of Gaya artifacts to enhance the value of the traditional culture and incorporate modern applications into a K-tattoo design.