South Korea’s Students Tattoo Symbols of Discipline

In Seoul, high school and university students are gravitating toward tattoos of clocks, books, and minimalist ink strokes that symbolize focus and discipline. Many say these designs remind them of the long hours of study required to succeed in Korea’s competitive academic system.

Tattoo studios report a surge in requests for small, hidden tattoos that can be covered during formal occasions. Educators see it as a way for students to silently rebel while still reinforcing values of hard work and academic perseverance.