Interview with Queer Korean Tattoo Artist Rocco
Rocco’s art is a quiet rebellion against conservative Korea.
Cover photo: Couple’s tattoos by Rocco (2023). Photo via the artist’s Instagram (color-corrected and cropped).
Intro
Rocco (로꼬) is an anonymous tattoo artist residing in Seoul, South Korea. His work references animals, art history, and pop culture. He has grown popular among the queer community with his gentle depictions of muscled men.
I came across Rocco’s tattoos on Instagram, where he has amassed over 11 thousand followers. His contemporary designs feel equally delicate and powerful — a quiet rebellion against conservative Korea, where both tattooing and queer culture are virtually illegal.
Please read on for my exclusive interview with Rocco, who answered my written questions in English, with limited assistance from his appointment manager Isaac. I have edited his response for clarity.
Danny With Love: What is your background? Do you live in Seoul? Why is your name Rocco?
Rocco: I graduated art school with a degree in animation film making. I live in Seoul but I was born and raised in Busan. Rocco is the name of Madonna’s son. She is my favorite singer. I am aware that Rocco is an Italian name but it sounds good and is easy to write.
Are you a tattoo artist full time? What does your typical work day look like?
I just go by Rocco and have a very boring life. I work out two hours every day, draw things all day long, and just sleep.
What is the status of tattoo art in Korea? Why do people get tattoos?
People love, hate, or don’t care about tattoos. But it’s still underground. Even non-medical purpose tattooing is illegal. Korea is a very conservative society.
How did you get interested in tattoo art? What does it mean to you?
I love tattoos and men with tattoos in general. And I needed to make some money to sustain myself after graduation. That’s all.
How did you develop your style? What inspires you?
At the beginning I wanted to draw people and their pets. I love dogs and cats so much. By coincidence, many customers interested in male nudity and homosexuality found my Instagram account. So they became the majority of my tattoo clients. Now I happily serve queer customers.
Can you describe your process, from concept to design? Do you collaborate with clients?
It is 100% a collaboration with customers. I start to design with their imaginations and inspirations. Once they confirm my draft, then I start.
As an artist, what pressures do you feel to conform to ideal body standards?
Tattoo works are done by customer request. Appearance is just a matter of taste, not a political issue.
What is queer life like in Korea?
Queer people exist but they are not visible. They are still comfortable with this situation. Of course there is LGBTQ activism in Korea but it is not that convincing, even for gay people. Korean queers are still conservative.
What do you hope for the future?
I hope for generosity and tolerance in Korean society, for everyone.
What is your dream project? What do you want to do next?
A solo exhibition.
How can people get in contact with you?
Just DM me!
