Actor Han So-hee reveals her look with tattoo stickers on her social media account. Captured from Han So-hee's Instagram

Many stars have showcased their individuality through their tattoos, and actor Han So-hee is one of them. Han's tattoos have often been a topic of public discussion, and she has candidly shared her thoughts, drawing plenty of attention.

Han frequently shares photos of herself sporting tattoo stickers on social media. For her, these stickers serve as a stress-relief tool. In a past social media live broadcast, she said, "There isn't a specific reason I bought tattoo stickers. But since I can't dye my hair, I bought the stickers as a way to relieve stress."

On July 14 and 15, Han posted pictures of herself covered in flowers and butterflies on social media. The realistic visuals led many to wonder whether they were real tattoos or stickers. The designs on her body were indeed tattoo stickers.

Many online commented on these posts, some praising the visuals while others found them uncomfortable. Despite the mixed reaction, Han So-hee continued to share images of herself adorned with tattoo stickers.

Of course, Han is not the only star who uses tattoos and tattoo stickers to express herself.

Yoon Bo-mi of the girl group Apink revealed she has a friendship tattoo on her foot. Actor Han Ye-seul showed her couple tattoo with her boyfriend on her YouTube channel.

Singer Taeyeon shared on JTBC's "Begin Again 3" that she has the word "Purpose" tattooed on the back of her neck. Singer Lee Hyo-ri also has several tattoos.

These stars often face criticism from those opposed to tattoos, particularly older generations.

This was highlighted in JTBC's "Mom, Will You Go on a Trip with Me?" where Lee Hyo-ri's mother disapproved of her new tattoo, saying, "Don't ever do this again. I wish they would all disappear. It doesn't look good on TV."

Lee Hyo-ri defended herself, saying, "It's my way of expressing my individuality."

Among young people aspiring to get tattoos, the phrase "get the tattoo first and get scolded by parents later" is commonly used.

Actor Han So-hee / Captured from Han So-hee's Instagram

Harsh criticism

Many stars have faced harsh criticism because of their tattoos. Among them, Han So-hee's body art has particularly been a hot topic and faced strong reactions.

This is due to her high profile. She has showcased her significant influence in the fashion world to the extent of being an ambassador for famous brands.

Many young people of her age group emulate her style. When Han wore a toy princess set, it caused a sold-out frenzy. Han, who seeks to express her individuality through tattoos, and many who oppose them continue to have vastly different opinions.

Will the public perception regarding tattoos ever change? Cultural critic Kim Heon-sik said, "It's true that the perception of tattoos in Korea is generally negative. What's important is the attitude of celebrities. Overemphasizing tattoos as a trend can provoke a backlash. If stars highlight the practical uses of tattoos, like covering scars, the public perception could become more positive."

This article from the Hankook Ilbo, sister publication of The Korea Times, is translated by generative AI and edited by staff of The Korea Times.