A few days prior, we engaged in a stimulating conversation with Rukim, a remarkable Korean tattoo artist renowned for his surrealistic and black-and-grey designs. Come discover the narratives entwined with Rukim’s surrealistic monochrome works. Let’s learn more about Rukim together!
For our readers who aren’t familiar with you, how would you introduce yourself?
Hi! My name is Rukim. Nice to meet you!!! I’m from Korea, and I mainly make blackwork-style tattoos.
Where does your fascination with tattoos come from?
I think these are unique designs made with ordinary materials, in contrast to attempts to create designs.
How and when did you start tattooing?
I was originally a lifeguard. But I injured my shoulder and had to undergo surgery. Still, it was good, and I started looking for something else to do. I always liked doodling, and sometimes I drew pictures of my friends’ bodies with a pen. So, I decided to learn tattooing and felt that it was a job that suited me very well. It’s already been 7 years since then.
Where are you based?
I’m based in Korea!
How would you describe the tattoo scene in Korea these days?
Korean tattoo culture does not possess a long history, and people’s perception of tattoos is not good either. There were a lot of bad people in Korea who had tattoos and threatened people, which is why Japanese yakuza tattoos were partially associated with bad guys. And getting tattoos is illegal in Korea. So it seems like the culture is not established and is being swayed around here and there. It’s really bad. But there are a lot of good artists in Korea. Isn’t it because people thrived during adversity and tried to survive that they became very good at it? I think that’s why Korea’s tattoo market is ironic. There are too many good artists in a very bad market.
How would you define your tattoo style?
I have a surrealist style based on blackwork. I’ve been making plenty of designs. But lately, I’m thinking of changing my style, and I don’t want to define it because it may change soon.
You seem to have a very well-curated Instagram page. How much impact will this have on your business?
It’s nice to be able to give customers trust. And when I upload a picture or tattoo I want to show, I look forward to the reactions of my followers. About Instagram? Actually, I’m not really interested in it, which is why you may see that I don’t frequently post on my profile.
What is your main source of inspiration for your tattoos?
I think inspiration can come from anywhere. If you look at a lot of things, feel nature, and live happily, extraordinary scenes will start appearing in your subconscious mind. Then one day, the moment I opened my door while I was taking a shower and I was “answering nature’s call,” a flash of inspiration struck me. So I think my inspiration comes from my imagination upon positive things in real life. Seeing, feeling, and hearing a lot of good things. Some sort of thing like that…
What is the most difficult aspect of becoming a tattoo artist in 2023?
As you know, the number of tattoo artists has increased, and popular categories have become very saturated. So, I think it might be difficult to start with your own style. If you want to be active with your artwork, consider yourself to have an initial financial aid and spend a lot of time practicing alone. Wouldn’t that be difficult? But I think that if you overcome those times, you will stand a chance to become an extraordinary artist.
What is the most rewarding aspect of being a tattoo artist?
This is so obvious to me… It is satisfaction! To be clearer, I now make money from the doodling and drawings that I started when I was young. That’s exciting. More than that, I can do what I like. I think that’s already the reward.
What has your experience been like at tattoo conventions so far?
I was offered a sponsorship and became friends with other people in the industry. It is amazing to learn that we can easily become friends with people from all over the world with just one tattoo.
Do you remember the first tattoo convention you ever went to?
Of course. At that time, I followed my mentor to a convention in Chiang Mai. It was outstanding. I didn’t expect that there were that many tattoo artists, and I felt like this was really a culture that I could immerse myself in.
What is your main reason for attending tattoo conventions?
Back then, I just went to have fun. It’s so much joy there. But now I think of pursuing my tattoo career.
What has been your favorite tattoo convention so far? And why?
Chiang Mai Convention, Thailand. There, after the convention closed, the organizers made contracts with artists. Then, I rented a club for them and provided them with food and drinks. You can have a lot of chats and exchanges there, and it’s really exciting.
What advice would you give to someone considering a career as a tattoo artist?
I think I should be in a position to get a consultation instead, so I am more than happy to receive any advice from you all.
Who are the people you admire most in the tattoo community?
@undulmood is my friend, who is active in Germany. I admire his actions and mindset. He is such a great friend to me. There are many artists I like, but the one that comes to mind is that friend!
What is your greatest achievement as a tattoo artist?
My parents initially hated tattoos. As time flies, I got my first tattoo, and my parents also got tattoos. Now they finally acknowledge me. I would consider that to be the biggest milestone that I’ve ever reached. To me, it’s an achievement.
Do you do any other forms of art besides tattoos?
I also draw pictures and make sculptures with clay. I like building things more than just drawing.
What are your goals or dreams for the near future?
My dream is to open my own tattoo shop overseas. Specifically, I want to open a shop in London.
Is there anything else you’d like to tell our readers?
Hello WTE subscribers!!! Here in the magazine It’s an honor and a pleasure to be presented. I will definitely grow further, so please look forward to it!!! I love you all!!
Leave A Comment