Koblin is a tattoo artist from Seoul, South Korea, who has created not just a character, but an entire universe of engraved gnomes. The gnome is a recurring figure in his tattoos – a character that helps him tell stories, shift roles, and reinterpret familiar themes, from folklore to pop culture. He can fight Godzilla, sit beside a mushroom, or wear a Spider-Man costume, yet always remains himself. It feels natural and sincere – like an old engraving with a modern sense of humor.
Koblin’s style is built on classic engraving techniques: hatching, the balance of light and shadow, and small yet striking compositions. His tattoos are a rare example of how an artist can turn a simple character into a personal visual code.
Hi, Koblin! Is that your real name or a creative pseudonym?
Koblin: It’s a creative pseudonym. “Koblin” is just a literal translation of the Korean word dokkaebi (goblin), and “deadman” I borrowed from a manga I really like, haha.
We’ve been following your portfolio for a long time – your gnomes are legendary! Tell us how they came to be and became your signature style.
Koblin: The gnome really came about by accident. I once told my wife, “I want to draw gnomes, but I don’t know how to start.” She suggested I use my profile picture face, and it just clicked.
Why did you choose engraving-style tattooing? What drew you to this particular style?
Koblin: I first entered tattooing through blackwork, but honestly, I didn’t really find it that fun. While searching around, I discovered engraving as a genre, and since I had already studied it in university, I thought, “Why didn’t I think of doing this as tattoos before?” That’s how it started – though at first, I struggled a lot.
Where do you find inspiration and knowledge to work in the engraving tattoo style?
Koblin: At first, I looked a lot into medieval books and similar references. But now I’m so familiar with the style that I actually draw more inspiration from non-engraving sources. I try to find ideas while traveling for guest spots, or just in everyday life. Sometimes I stumble across the best references in totally unexpected places.
How did your tattoo journey begin? Where and how did you start?
Koblin: My tattoo journey began in January 2019. Before that, I was just a customer getting tattoos. Since I went to an art university, I had seniors who were tattooing already. Honestly, I found drawing more fun than fine art, so I didn’t hesitate to make the switch. It was really tough in the beginning.
Where are you working now? Is your waiting list long?
Koblin: Right now I’m based in Seoul. Since I travel a lot for guest work, I always announce in advance where I’ll be, so people can just reach out to me by email.
Do clients usually come to you for pre-made designs or custom projects?
Koblin: Clients seem to prefer custom projects. I also think gnomes work really well as custom pieces – since everyone has different things they like, custom designs are definitely more popular.
Is there a particular tattoo in your career that stands out the most to you?
Koblin: Probably the gnome-scorpion tattoo I did for David stands out the most. It was an honor to leave a piece of work among such amazing people. By the way, David only gets tattoos in blue ink!
What’s your attitude toward tattoo conventions? Tell us about your experience participating in them.
Koblin: I’ve taken part in conventions in Korea. It’s great for networking and everything, but I’d love to attend international conventions too. I think they require a lot of preparation, so I plan to get ready properly and try participating abroad.
You recently released a clothing collection – tell us about this part of your career.
Koblin: It was a fun experience! I’d love to prepare more and create an even more exciting clothing collection. In the future, I’d also like to collaborate with a streetwear brand.
Do you have any creative plans for the coming year?
Koblin: Nothing is scheduled yet, but I would love to do an exhibition in a gallery someday. Of course, I’ll also continue guest spots – London, Paris, and hopefully surrounding cities as well. And I definitely want to go back to the U.S. too (I’ve been there already, but still!).
Keep following Koblin’s amazing work on Instagram – every new appearance of his incredible gnomes is a small event in the tattoo world.
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