Tattooing since 2015, Korean-born artist Ahrip creates mesmerizing blackwork tattoos inspired by surrealism. His work channels personal imagination into bold designs that have won awards across European conventions. As he continues to push creative boundaries, he discusses the evolving perception of tattoos, what it means to grow as an artist, and how collaboration and community drive his passion forward.
For the readers who are not familiar with you, how would you introduce yourself?
Hello, I work with blackwork based on surrealism in Paris, France. I’m Korean, and I started learning tattooing in Korea in 2015. Since December 2022, I’ve been based in Paris, where I work as a resident artist at the Legacy Ink Social. I have about 10 years of experience.
Where did your fascination for tattoos come from?
Around 2010, I was introduced to tattoos and was fascinated by their uniqueness and creativity, so I started getting tattoos on my body one by one. At that time, seeing the passionate eyes of the tattoo artists made me even more captivated by tattoos, and I began to develop an interest in becoming a tattoo artist myself.
At what point in your life did you become a professional tattoo artist?
I don’t really want to define myself as a professional tattoo artist. I simply want to share the work I love with many people and leave it engraved on their bodies. For some context, I started learning tattooing in 2015 and did my first piece in 2016. I gained a lot of experience working in Korea, and since coming to France in 2022, I’ve been realizing what I truly want to do and continue to grow in my journey.
How would you describe the tattoo scene in South Korea these days?
In the past, there was a strong negative perception of tattoos. However, now, especially among the younger generation, tattoos are seen as a way to express individuality, and with the influx of various cultures, many different styles of tattoos are being showcased. Overall, the perception of tattoos has changed significantly, and the demand has increased, but they are still not legally protected.
How would you define your current tattoo style and how did you develop it to what it is today?
Currently, I work in the blackwork style. I define it as such because I only use black ink for my work. The art style I focus on is based on surrealism. The main reason I gravitated toward surrealism is that it allows me to express my imagination in a way that resonates with me.
Please walk us through your process when you start a new tattoo for your customers.
I mainly create custom designs based on the client’s needs. For the pieces I want to work on, I often spontaneously post on my Instagram feed and look for models.
What’s the most challenging aspect of being a tattoo artist in 2025?
I think the most challenging aspect is scalability. Of course, since I’m creating permanent art on a client’s body, it requires a lot of focus. However, I believe that as an artist, I need to demonstrate the appropriate steps in my journey. To put it simply, I’m talking about artistic activities like exhibitions. Therefore, I believe scalability is necessary to promote, show, and express “me” as an artist.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a tattoo artist?
Of course, the number one reward is when customers are satisfied with my style of tattoo and leave happy. Secondly, it’s the opportunity to connect with other artists and win awards at various conventions.
What’s your experience at tattoo conventions so far?
It has been such a valuable and enjoyable experience. I’ve participated in around 7-8 conventions so far, and luckily, I’ve won awards at all of them. It felt great to see my tattoos being recognized, and I feel I’ve grown a lot through the interactions with many other artists.
What’s your primary reason to attend a tattoo convention?
The main purpose is to interact with many artists, grow as an artist, and win awards.
How do you think tattoo conventions could improve for the artists and the public?
Each convention has its own values, so the areas for improvement will differ from one to another. However, the most important thing to focus on is creating an environment that blends the perspectives of both artists and the public in a harmonious way. I believe the improvements should be tailored to align with the values that each convention seeks to uphold.
What’s your favorite tattoo convention so far? And why?
There are several conventions I’ve enjoyed. First, the Mondial Tattoo Convention in Paris, France; second, The Ink Factory Lyon in Lyon, France; third, Gods of Ink in Frankfurt, Germany; and fourth, the Milano Tattoo Convention in Milan, Italy. These conventions are prestigious events worldwide and provide opportunities to meet renowned artists, which is why I enjoy them. However, unfortunately, I haven’t participated in Gods of Ink and Milano yet and have only attended as a spectator.
What advice would you offer to someone considering a career as a tattoo artist?
There are many factors to consider, but I believe effort and perseverance are key. Since being a freelancer means you’re not bound by strict time constraints, it’s easy to become lazy or take shortcuts. That’s why I think effort and persistence are crucial.
Who are the people you admire the most within the tattoo community?
The people who inspire and whom I deeply admire are Patryk Chybowski, whose unique style makes me think deeply, and my wife, Lina. I rely a lot on her emotionally; she’s my pillar of support. She is also a tattoo artist, specializing in linework based on a sketch style.
What’s your biggest accomplishment as a tattoo artist?
My biggest accomplishment is meeting clients who appreciate my tattoo style and winning awards at conventions.
How do you stay at the top of your game?
I believe I’m still in the process of growing. To develop, I meet and converse with many tattoo artists. I also make an effort to purchase new tattoo equipment and try it out.
Do you do other forms of art besides tattooing?
I’ve held an exhibition featuring my artwork, and I’m currently planning more exhibitions for the future. Additionally, to promote my work, I create various merchandise to sell or give away.
What are your goals or dreams for the near future?
My goal for the near future is to share many experiences with the shop I’m part of, Legacy Ink Social, and grow together. My dream is for more tattoo artists and clients to recognize me and my work.
Do you sponsors? If so, what could you tell us about your sponsors?
I am part of the pro team for Handink, a supplier that integrates and sells products from various brands. I also receive sponsorship for merchandise production from a startup company called Artycloud(artz). Artycloud(artz) is a Korean brand that collaborates with tattoo artists to print their artwork on items like t-shirts and bags. Additionally, as a small wish, I hope to receive sponsorship from the brands I primarily use, including Eclipse Ink, Tattoo Proton, FK Irons, and Bishop Rotary.
Is there anything else you would like to tell our readers?
For me, tattooing is a way to express culture and art, as well as a way to connect with people. Since tattooing involves using art to permanently mark a client’s body, there are often many requests that can be challenging for the client. I completely understand, but I hope clients can trust and entrust their tattoos to the artist. Thank you for reading this long message.
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