In this interview, we introduce tattoo artist Jihoon – a Korean creator working under the name UNDULMOOD.
His style immediately caught our attention – truly unique, blending European blackwork with Eastern ornamental aesthetics. Jihoon divides his time between Berlin and Seoul, which feels especially symbolic given the dual nature of his artistic style. His tattoos are ornaments and patterns that appear as if carved into armor – each one unique to the wearer. Jihoon calls his art “armor for the human body” – a protective layer for the human soul.
In this conversation, he speaks about his journey and the evolution of his personal style, where tattooing becomes a form of protection, self-expression, and personal aesthetics.
— Tell us a little about yourself. Where are you from, and how long have you been tattooing?
Jihoon: I was born and raised in Busan, South Korea, where I studied Industrial Design. From 2017 to 2024, I lived and worked as a tattoo artist in Berlin, Germany. I’m currently based in Seoul, South Korea. I’ve been tattooing for over eight years now.
— Tell us about your journey – what or who brought you into this industry?
Jihoon: I still remember the first time I walked into a tattoo studio to get my first tattoo. Within three seconds, I knew – this is what I want to do for the rest of my life. That feeling stayed with me, and that passion eventually led me to Berlin, where I began my journey as a tattoo artist.
— Where did you study, or how did you develop your skills?
Jihoon: I started tattooing on my own, self-taught at first. A few months later, I was fortunate enough to join a studio in Berlin, where I learned a lot from the resident artists. My second studio had a high volume of walk-ins, which helped me develop a well-rounded technical base through diverse projects.
— Tell us about your style – what techniques and tattoo styles do you work with?
Jihoon: My work can broadly be described as ornamental blackwork. While the style has European roots, I incorporate a strong sense of my own identity, often using Eastern motifs within that framework.
Technically, I combine black packing and dot work to build form and texture. Unlike black and grey or realism tattoos, I aim for a more flat, graphic, and 2D expression – almost like a visual pattern that flows with the body.
— What forms of art inspire you when creating your designs?
Jihoon: My slogan, “Armor for the human body,” is inspired by armors from various cultures around the world. I’ve always seen my own tattoos as a kind of personal talisman – something that protects me like armor. That concept naturally evolved as I researched different historical armors and cultural aesthetics, and those influences became a core element of my tattoo designs.
— How does your tattoo creation process usually go – from idea to finished piece?
Jihoon: I usually start designing on my iPad. Sometimes I begin with a simple concept sketch and go freehand during the tattooing process. Other times, I complete the full design digitally and combine partial stencil work with freehand drawing on the skin.
Since most of my projects are large-scale, they often take multiple sessions – anywhere from two or three up to ten. The first session usually focuses on layout, freehand drawing, and greywash outlines, while the following sessions are dedicated to black packing and shading.
— You’ve done many large-scale projects – tell us about one or two of your favorites.
Jihoon: The pieces attached below are some of my favorites. I’m drawn to compositions that are geometric and pattern-heavy, often inspired by traditional Korean motifs like dancheong (the colorful patterns found on Korean temple architecture). These works best represent the direction I want to keep developing — merging traditional Eastern visual language with modern ornamental flow.
— You work between Berlin and Seoul. Which studios are you currently working with, and where will your “home base” be in 2026?
Jihoon: I’m currently working at Light House Professional Tattoo in Seoul. In Berlin, I was part of Der Grimm Tattoo. In 2026, I plan to return to Berlin and continue my practice there.
— What’s your experience with tattoo conventions? Can you tell us about your most valuable experience or awards?
Jihoon: This year, I participated in the Korea Tattoo Convention and won 1st place in the Korean Traditional category. It was an inspiring experience – seeing so many talented artists’ work gave me a lot of motivation. I’m now working on a full body suit project that I plan to present at several upcoming conventions.
— What is most important to you when working with clients?
Jihoon: Communication. I believe good communication is essential to building trust with clients. Since I work internationally, speaking English fluently helps me connect with people and ensure that every client feels understood and confident throughout the process.
—For those who dream of getting tattooed by you – how does the booking process work?
Jihoon: Bookings can be made through my website, undulmood.com. Once a booking request is submitted, I reply via email with details about the design, schedule, and pricing. After the deposit is paid, the booking is confirmed.
—What goals do you set for yourself in your career?
Jihoon: Artists like Gakkin and Nissaco have created distinctive visual languages that have become their own genres. I want to continue developing my style in the same way – creating full body suits that embody my philosophy, “Armor for the human body.” Ultimately, my goal is to establish that phrase not just as a slogan, but as a recognizable tattoo genre in itself.
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