Meet XAMO, a one-of-a-kind Korean tattoo artist bringing bold colors and surreal collages to the international scene. With a style that’s all over the map, his work stands out for its playful, rich compositions and an ever-evolving sense of style. The artist’s pieces shine through a playful attention to detail and a sense of endless exploration in style, technicalities, and concepts.
For XAMO, tattooing is all about the connection with clients, turning their stories into lifelong art. Always experimenting with new machines, needles, and colors, the artist is inspired by everything from dreams to Basquiat. Though new to the convention world, big plans are in the works to travel, learn, and share work globally. Dive into this chat to discover XAMO’s journey, style, and what keeps the creative fire burning.
How would you like to introduce yourself?
Hello! My name is XAMO (pronounced ‘same-oh’). My works are usually with bold colours, surreal and collage compositions.
Where can your customers find you? (Please specify a city and studio.)
I am a tattoo artist originally from Korea, but currently I’m based in London, working as a resident artist at Sans Patrie Studio. I’m planning to travel more and visit different places around the world from next year.
How would you describe the tattoo scene in your country these days?
As many people know, tattooing in Korea used to be illegal unless you had a medical license. But just a few days ago, it was finally officially legalized! I’m really happy about this change, and I hope the tattoo scene in Korea continues to grow in a healthy way, with more respect, creativity, and support for one another.
What does tattooing mean to you personally?
It’s about connection. Tattooing isn’t something I can do alone, it needs another person. That’s why I value the connection with each client. Our conversations often inspire new ideas, and I love how their stories sometimes become part of the design. I’m always grateful they carry my work with them for life.
What did your first tattoo look like?
My first tattoo was on my cousin (also a tattoo artist @02percentof02), “내맘대로” in Korean, which roughly means “Whatever I want”. The letter “맘” got really blown out, so now my cousin jokes that I must’ve really wanted to emphasize that part, hahaha.
How would you define your current tattoo style, and how did you end up focusing on it?
I don’t think my work fits into a single category. It can be illustrative, abstract, surreal, doodle-like, or even collage-inspired. I love adding small hidden details or meanings into each piece, and seeing people discover them. I’ve always been drawn to the works of Jean-Michel Basquiat, and growing up, I preferred surrealist artists over realistic ones. That naturally shaped the direction of my current style.
What tools and machines do you prefer to use?
I really enjoy trying different tools and experimenting with various machines, needles, and inks! I like exploring what works best for me. But over the past couple of years, I’ve mostly used machines from FK Irons, needles from Emalla, and a wide range of colours from StarBrite. I’ll probably keep testing out new tools in the future, but there are a few StarBrite Colors I really love and plan to use long-term.
How do you stay creatively inspired?
Whenever I get an idea, I write it down right away in my notes app. I used to jot things down too simply and often forgot what they meant later. So now, I try to capture as much detail as possible, even when I’m in a rush. Over time, I collect these notes and connect them like a mind map to develop new ideas.
Are there any tattoo styles you’d like to explore more?
I think my overall style will stay quite similar going forward in the future as well. I want to keep evolving it rather than switching to something completely different. However, I’ve been studying elements and techniques from old school and traditional styles lately. I’m not looking to do those styles directly, but I’m interested in incorporating parts of them into my work in my own way.
What’s the most underrated tattoo style?
It’s hard to say any particular style is underrated, since the tattoo scene is already so diverse and full of amazing artists in every genre. But I personally really admire artists whose work is instantly recognizable, where you can tell who did it just by looking. That level of creativity and individuality deserves more appreciation, in my opinion. I also try to build that kind of strong identity in my own work, too.
As a Tattoo Artist, what kind of tattoo ethics is really important to you?
For me, the most important thing is responsibility since my work stays on someone’s body for life. And I also value respect and a willingness to learn. There are so many different styles and artists out there, and even if their work is very different from mine, I believe that respecting and learning from each other helps me grow as an artist.
Being a successful tattoo artist requires many different skills. What’s your favorite way to keep learning?
I like trying different styles and textures, and using various tools and techniques myself. I believe real learning comes from doing, not just watching. That’s why I keep experimenting with new things.
What’s the most challenging aspect of being a tattoo artist in 2025?
These days, it’s not just about consultations, designing, and tattooing. I also have to manage my Instagram, edit videos, and constantly create Reels. Balancing all of that can be exhausting.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a tattoo artist?
The most rewarding part is definitely when clients truly love the piece. When both of us are happy with the final result, and later they even share healed photos or post their tattoos on Instagram. That always feels great.
How do you feel about the growing acceptance of tattoos in society?
I think it’s a really positive change. In Korea, the perception of tattoos still isn’t that great, so I hope things continue to improve. Even if people don’t love tattoos, I just hope they’ll stop seeing them in such a negative light.
What’s the biggest misconception that customers may have about tattoos?
A common misunderstanding is how much time it takes to create a custom design. It might seem like the idea comes together instantly, but in reality, there’s a lot of thought, sketching, and decision-making involved behind the scenes.
Who are the people you admire the most within the tattoo community?
There are so many artists I admire, especially those around me. I’m really grateful to be surrounded by tattooers with whom I can openly share feedback, advice, values, and future goals. It’s hard to name everyone, but I always feel thankful.
What’s your experience at tattoo conventions so far?
I haven’t participated in any tattoo conventions yet. So far, I’ve mainly focused on developing my own work. But recently, my mindset has shifted, and I’ve been wanting to explore more. I’m currently planning to start attending conventions in 2026.
What’s your primary reason to attend a tattoo convention?
As I mentioned, my mindset has changed recently. I want to meet artists from around the world, learn by seeing their work in person, and be exposed to a wider range of styles. I also hope to share my own work with a more global audience through these events.
Have you ever had the opportunity to participate in any tattoo contests?
I haven’t joined any tattoo conventions yet, so I haven’t had the chance to enter any contests either. But once I start attending, I definitely want to take part. I think it’ll be a great way to learn what I can improve, and hopefully one day I’ll earn an award too.
Was there any event in particular that really boosted your career?
My first guest spot abroad definitely shifted the direction of my career. The atmosphere and mindset around tattooing were so different from what I was used to in Korea, and that contrast really opened my eyes. Working in a new environment felt exciting, and meeting people from different backgrounds taught me a lot. It helped me grow both as an artist and as a person.
Is there any tattoo that you have created in your career that you are particularly proud of?
Yes, I once created a design based on the theme of “Hope,” and it’s the only tattoo I’ve ever allowed to be repeated. Usually, I never do the same piece twice, but this one was different. Every time someone got that tattoo, the full fee was donated to help build the first ALS care hospital in Korea. A few years later, I heard the hospital was finally approved. That moment made me feel proud!
What advice would you offer to someone considering a career as a tattoo artist?
Keep working steadily to find your own style, that’s what will make you stand out. And since tattooing means putting your art on someone else’s skin permanently, always approach it with a strong sense of responsibility.
What are your goals or dreams for the near future?
One of my goals in the near future is to start attending tattoo conventions and gain experience through them. I still have a lot to learn, but it would be amazing if I could even win an award someday.
What legacy do you want to leave as a tattoo artist?
I hope to build a style so strong and unique that people can recognize my work instantly, whether they see it on the street or online. It would be amazing if someone looked at a tattoo and said, “That’s definitely by XAMO.” That’s the kind of legacy I want to leave behind.
To close this awesome interview, what’s your last message to our readers?
Thank you for reading! I’m still learning and growing, but I hope my work can connect with people in meaningful ways. And maybe someday, we’ll cross paths somewhere and inspire each other in unexpected ways. Who knows, I might even get to tattoo you!
Until then, I’ll be working hard every day. Wishing you a great day!
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