Yujhi is a tattoo artist from South Korea whose work has quickly become recognizable among fans of experimental blackwork. His style exists at the crossroads of bio-organics and graphic surrealism: the tattoos evoke a mix of unease, curiosity, and hypnotic attention. These are images that repel and attract at the same time – spikes, tentacles, chitin-like textures, and segmented forms make his designs feel visually “dangerous,” almost tactile.
Yet behind the outward aggression lies more than pure horror aesthetics – it is a reflection on transformation, unstable identity, and the shifting border between the human and the “other.” Yujhi’s style cannot be reduced to traditional blackwork or biomechanical tattooing; it is a self-contained visual language in which the tattoo doesn’t decorate the body, but exists on it as an independent organism.
We invite you to explore the dark and mesmerizing world of Yujhi’s tattoo art.
Hi! Could you tell us a little about yourself, where you are from and how you got into tattooing?
Yujhi: Hi! I’m Yujhi, a tattoo artist from South Korea, currently working internationally. My journey into tattooing began with a deep passion for drawing, storytelling, and human connection. I’ve always been fascinated by the idea of art living on the skin – something personal, powerful, and permanent.
I started tattooing professionally in my early twenties, after years of practicing illustration and exploring different forms of visual expression. Before tattooing, I was immersed in fine arts and design, and those disciplines still influence my approach today – especially in terms of composition, negative space, and rhythm.
How would you describe your style? What features of your portfolio make you stand out among other artists?
Yujhi: I would describe my style as bold, abstract blackwork with strong visual narrative and emotional weight. My work is often rooted in contrast – between organic flow and graphic structure, between solid black and open space. What sets my portfolio apart is not just the technique, but the intentionality behind each piece. I strive to create designs that move with the body and grow with the wearer.
How and why did you choose the blackwork technique?
Yujhi: Blackwork felt like a natural extension of how I see the world – in structure, shadow, and symbolic depth. I was drawn to its timelessness and strength. The limitations of working with just black ink actually open up endless possibilities in form and storytelling. It forces clarity, precision, and bold decision-making, which I find incredibly exciting.
Do you create designs based on clients’ requests, or do you more often work from your own ideas?
Yujhi: It’s always a collaborative process. I listen carefully to each client’s story, feelings, and intentions, then translate that into my visual language. Most clients come to me specifically for my artistic interpretation, so I often design freely based on their themes or emotions. This balance of trust and creative freedom allows for deeply personal and unique results.
Tell us about your admiration for Kim Jung-gi’s art. How has it influenced your style?
Yujhi: His work taught me to trust my instincts and embrace rhythm in composition. His confidence and storytelling deeply influence how I design and flow through large-scale projects.
What else inspired you to create your unique style?
Yujhi: I draw inspiration from nature, anatomy, decaying structures, architecture, and emotion. I like to express the connection between the outer world and inner states.
Are there works in your portfolio that you are especially proud of?
Yujhi: Yes, I’m proud of works where blackwork organically blends with the body’s structure. I especially love large-scale pieces that evolve with the client’s form and energy.
What is more important to you in tattooing – quality, scale, or the emotional aspect?
Yujhi: The emotional aspect. Without meaning or connection, a tattoo is just ink. I want each piece to carry depth and reflect something personal.
Where are you currently working and who are you collaborating with?
Yujhi: I work between South Korea and Europe, collaborating with studios and artists who value depth, creativity, and artistic integrity.
Do you plan any guest spots or travels?
Yujhi: Yes, I often travel to cities like Berlin, Paris, and Brussels. I announce all travel and booking updates on Instagram (@nowthisyujhi).
Do you have experience participating in conventions?
Yujhi: I’m just starting. In August 2025, I participated in the Korea Tattoo Convention in Seoul and was honored to win 1st place in two categories – Sleeve & Leg, and Blackwork. It was a very meaningful achievement for me. I plan to attend more conventions in the future.
Is your waiting list long at the moment? How can clients book with you?
Yujhi: My current waitlist is about one month. I open bookings periodically through Instagram stories, where clients can find all the details and instructions to apply.
What path of development do you see for yourself in the next few years?
Yujhi: I want to push my style further – into abstraction, movement, and emotional storytelling. I also hope to explore sculpture and textile arts, and eventually support younger artists through mentoring.
Comments (0)