We sit down with Lina, a Korean tattoo artist now based in Paris at Legacy Tattoo Studio. Known for her distinctive linework style, Lina reflects on the emotional depth behind her work and her belief that tattoos serve as lifelong companions to memory. She speaks candidly about her decision to pursue tattooing despite the conservative stigma that still surrounds the craft in Korea, and how that choice shaped both her career and artistic identity.
Focused, disciplined, and deeply committed to creating meaningful pieces for her clients, Lina stands out as part of a new generation redefining the possibilities of linework tattooing.
Hello Lina, how would you like to introduce yourself?
I’d describe myself as someone calm but also full of energy.
Where can your customers find you?
I’m based in Paris, France, where I work at Legacy Tattoo Studio.
You are from Korea right? How would you describe the tattoo scene in Korea these days?
The tattoo scene in my country feels both traditional and progressive. People are open to new ideas, and technically, the level is very high.
How would you define yourself in one word?
If I had to describe myself in one word, I’d say “Little Giant.”
Where did your fascination for tattoos come from?
What fascinates me about tattoos is that they can hold someone’s memories, whether joy or sorrow forever. They become a lifelong companion and a source of strength, and I find that incredibly powerful. For me, tattooing means a new challenge every time.
At what point in your life did you decide to become a professional tattoo artist?
I used to work as a barista for about seven years. I loved working with coffee and still do, but I often found myself reflecting a lot about the people I served. Around that time, my boyfriend jokingly asked, “Why don’t you try tattooing?” Since I also loved drawing, I decided to take the leap and pursue tattooing as a career.
How did your family react when you started a career in tattooing?
Being Korean, I was nervous about telling my family. In Korea, tattoos still carry a negative and conservative image, so I expected strong opposition. But to my surprise, they were quite supportive and told me to go for it if that’s what I wanted.
Did you go through an apprenticeship? How was that experience?
I went through an apprenticeship for about six months. It wasn’t very structured, but I learned a lot, like how to take proper photos of tattoos and how to place stencils to fit the body naturally. Those details were really valuable.
What did your first tattoo look like?
The very first tattoo I did was lettering, and it’s still there today, looking just fine.
Do you usually do guest spots? If yes, what’s your experience in doing them?
My first guest spot was in Paris, and that’s how I discovered Legacy. I felt such a great connection with the people there that I ended up settling down and making it my home.
As a Tattoo Artist, what does your daily working routine look like?
I’m a bit of a laid-back person, so when I get to the studio, I usually spend some time chatting with my team while sketching designs. I like to start the day with a relaxed coffee.
How do you determine the price of a tattoo?
The price of a tattoo depends on the size of the design and the level of detail.
How would you define your current tattoo style, and how did you end up focusing on it?
My tattoo style is based on linework with sketch-like lines. In the beginning, I struggled with pulling clean, straight lines, so I started developing this style as a way to challenge myself and create better tattoos.
Please walk us through your process when you start a new tattoo for your customers.
When starting a new tattoo, I first disinfect the client’s skin and shave the area. Then I apply the stencil and let it dry for about 10-20 minutes before beginning the session.
How do you stay creatively inspired and balance client requests with your artistic vision?
I keep my creativity alive mostly by observing real-life objects and looking at lots of photos. Most of the clients who reach out to me already like my style of drawing, so they’re usually happy with the designs I prepare. At most, they ask for small adjustments, so the balance between their requests and my artistic vision works out quite naturally.
What tools and machines do you prefer to use?
Right now, I use the FK Irons Flux, but I feel like it’s almost time to switch machines, so I’m considering my options.
What’s your number one aftercare advice for clients?
The most important aftercare advice I give clients is to keep their skin moisturized. I recommend applying ointment for the first one to two weeks and then focusing on hydration for another two weeks.
What’s the most challenging aspect of being a tattoo artist in 2025?
One of my biggest challenges in 2025 was to participate in many conventions and win awards. I was really proud to achieve that goal when I placed at the Nantes Convention this year. Another big challenge for me is to get sponsorship from a tattoo supply company.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a tattoo artist?
The most rewarding moments for me are when I create tattoos that carry someone’s most precious memories, especially when it’s about something deeply emotional, like sadness rather than joy.
As a Tattoo Artist, what kind of tattoo ethics is really important to you?
For me, the most important tattoo ethics are charging a fair price that reflects your technique, and always maintaining proper hygiene.
Being a successful tattoo artist requires many different skills. What’s your favorite way to keep learning?
I believe the best way to learn is simply by doing. Techniques are something you have to personally practice and absorb.
Do you like to teach or mentor upcoming artists?
I do enjoy teaching or guiding younger artists, although I’ve never done any formal mentoring.
What’s the best piece of advice you ever received to improve your tattooing technique?
The best advice I’ve ever received for improving my tattooing was: “Just try it. Do it first, then think. You’ll never truly understand by only thinking about it.”
How do you stay at the top of your game?
What helps me stay at the top of my game is a healthy amount of stress – it keeps me focused.
Are there any tattoo styles you’d like to explore more?
A style I’d like to explore more is blackwork. Since my tattoos are very line-based with bold outlines, I feel a bit weak when it comes to darker, heavier styles.
What’s the most underrated tattoo style?
I think linework (line mini tattoos) is underrated. People sometimes see it as something anyone can do, so it doesn’t always get the same recognition as other genres. But keeping lines perfectly clean and consistent is really challenging, and it’s a skill every tattoo artist should master.
What’s the most overrated tattoo style?
As for the most overrated tattoo style… that’s a tough one to answer.
Are there any tattoos you prefer not to do?
It’s not that I don’t want to do certain tattoos, but there are some I feel I can’t do, like irezumi. It requires a lot of specialized knowledge and study.
What’s your experience at tattoo conventions so far?
I really enjoy tattoo conventions because I feel like I learn something new every time I attend.
How do you usually prepare for a tattoo convention?
When preparing for a convention, I usually create new photos or drawings for the clients who will visit the booth.
What’s your primary reason to attend a tattoo convention?
My main reason for attending tattoo conventions is to participate in competitions… it’s really fun.
Have you ever had the opportunity to participate in any tattoo contests? You are welcome to specify your awards.
2023 Urban Land Tattoo Expo, Roma
2024 Lille Tattoo Convention
2024 Besançon International Tattoo Show
2024 Rouen Tattoo Festival
2024 Montpellier Tattoo Festival
• 1st place: Medium piece, Science Fiction/Fantasy
• 2nd place: Graphic/Abstract/Geometric/Watercolor
2024 Nantes Tattoo Convention
2025 Nantes Tattoo Convention
• 1st place: Flower/Fine Line
What’s your favorite tattoo convention so far? And why?
My favorite convention so far has been the Nantes Convention. The quality of the artists participating is excellent, and they’ve arranged the halls with wide walkways, making it easy for clients to move around.
Do you collect tattoos from artists you meet at conventions?
Unfortunately, I haven’t received tattoos from other artists I met at conventions yet, but I would love to.
Was there any event in particular that really boosted your career?
Attending conventions has been very inspiring for my career. Seeing so many talented artists has motivated me greatly, they are truly amazing.
Is there any tattoo that you have created in your career that you are particularly proud of?
One of the tattoos I’m most proud of is the piece I did for a model I met at the Lille Tattoo Convention. It was my first competition, and the design was on her outer thigh.
What is your greatest accomplishment as a tattoo artist?
My biggest achievement as a tattoo artist would be finally winning awards after participating in so many conventions over the years.
What’s your view on the rise of AI in tattooing?
I don’t think AI in tattooing is necessarily bad, but I do think it’s wrong for artists to just copy and use it as-is.
What would you change about the tattoo industry?
What I’d like to change in the tattoo industry is the indiscriminate rise of tattooists. I think it’s a problem when people start working professionally without proper training or professionalism.
Do you work on other projects within the tattoo industry?
I’m not currently involved in any other projects within the tattoo industry.
Do you do other forms of art besides tattooing?
I also don’t practice other forms of art outside of tattooing.
Do you have sponsors? If yes, what could you tell us about your sponsors?
Right now, I don’t have any sponsors, but it’s one of my main goals for this year!
How do you feel about the growing acceptance of tattoos in society?
Since I’m heavily tattooed myself, I feel satisfied seeing society become more accepting. At the same time, I hope people don’t rush into getting tattoos without really thinking it through.
What’s the biggest misconception that customers may have about tattoos?
One of the biggest misconceptions clients have is that tattoos don’t take much time, or that they might even be semi-permanent.
What’s the biggest trend in tattooing you have noticed in the last 5 years?
The biggest tattoo trends I’ve noticed over the past five years are geometric and geographic styles, as well as fine-line floral designs.
What advice would you offer to someone considering a career as a tattoo artist?
For those aspiring to become tattoo artists, I would say: it’s not easy. Doing it alone is really tough, so I recommend finding a team that shares your mindset.
What are your goals or dreams for the near future?
My goal in the near future is to increase my visibility and recognition while working hard so as not to let down my team.
What legacy do you want to leave as a tattoo artist?
As a tattoo artist, I want to leave a legacy of bringing happiness to people through my work.
To close this awesome interview, what’s your last message to our readers?
To close this wonderful interview, I want to thank you for taking the time to read my words. I’m grateful to everyone who loves tattoos. May your lives be filled with joy and more moments of engraving happiness than sorrow. Once again, thank you!
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