TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taiwan's tattoo industry has experienced notable growth, according to recent data released by the Ministry of Finance.
The ministry's report highlights the presence of tattoos among professional athletes, with many choosing tattoos to express personal beliefs, cultural identity, or individual style. The trend gained wider attention following Taiwan's championship win in the 2024 WBSC Premier12 tournament.
In Taiwan, tattoos have traditionally been linked to rebellious behavior or specific social groups. For instance, in gangs, tattoos often serve as rites of passage or symbols of bravery, while some tattoos on veterans signify patriotism, as highlighted in the study Consumers’ Motives, Experiences and Value of Tattoo in Taiwan.
According to a China Times report, Taiwan's first tattoo shop was opened in 1982 by Huang He-nan (黃河南). About 60% of the customers were affiliated with gangs, 20% sought tattoos to cover skin scars, and the rest were art enthusiasts who viewed tattoos as artistic expression.
As a result, tattoos were often negatively stigmatized in Taiwan. Professionals in fields like the judiciary and education are typically prohibited from having tattoos, with military, police, and educational recruitment guidelines disqualifying those with certain tattoos.
This highlights Taiwan's enduring stereotypical perception of tattoos, often linked to suspicion, discrimination, or fear, which obstructs their acceptance.
Tattoos take center stage
Taiwanese starting pitcher Lin Yu-min (林昱珉), who played a crucial role in the Premier12 championship win, was thrust into the spotlight for his full-arm tattoos, which sparked online discussions in Taiwan and Japan. Lin's tattoo artist, Horiiku (彫育) of Horifu tattoo, shared insights into the industry's development with Taiwan News.
Horiiku has been in the industry since high school and comes from a family of tattoo artists. He noted that while older generations may have associated tattoos with certain social groups, the practice has become more common, with Taiwanese perceptions shifting.
Horiiku also commented on cultural differences in tattoo perceptions, particularly between Japan and Taiwan. He observed that traditional tattoos in Japan have often been viewed with more reservation.
However, the attention given to Lin's tattoos provided an opportunity to show that tattoos do not change a person's character. “It’s an exciting opportunity to challenge the old perceptions,” Horiiku said.
Tattoo artist insights
The increased visibility of tattoos, largely driven by figures like Lin, has helped drive more business to Horiiku's studio. Since Team Taiwan's victory, Horifu has seen more customers, with many inquiring about ink similar to Lin's.
Horiiku's clientele spans a wide age range, from their 20s to 70s, though the lion's share are in their 30s. Horiiku also pointed to the expanding tattoo community in Taiwan, suggesting that the normalization of tattoos, along with the impact of celebrity trends, is driving the adoption of particular styles.
While traditional tattoo styles remain popular, modern, minimalist tattoos are making a significant impact, particularly among younger individuals. Ten, a tattoo artist specializing in abstract line tattoos, has witnessed the rise of this style, which she believes resonates deeply with the younger generation.
“My abstract style is a way for people to express their individuality quietly,” Ten said. “It's not just about decoration, it’s a personal statement.”
Ten's style, characterized by clean lines and abstract shapes, has become increasingly popular within Taiwan's tattoo community. She noted that when she began specializing in linear tattoos, the style was relatively uncommon.
Like Horiiku, Ten also recognizes the influence of high-profile figures in the growing acceptance of tattoos. Reflecting on Lin's tattoos, she said, “I think it’s fantastic that tattoos are being discussed more openly.”
Ten noted that Lin's tattoos have been interpreted as symbols of strength. This demonstrates that tattoos can communicate personal beliefs and identity.
Ten added that she believes tattoos are not just about body art but are becoming more widely accepted as a valid form of personal expression.
“Tattoo culture in Taiwan is evolving, and it’s encouraging to see the increasing acceptance, especially among young people. I hope the tattoo scene continues to diversify, with more styles, better techniques, and even more social acceptance of tattoos as a legitimate art form,” she concluded.
The number of registered tattoo and eyebrow tattoo establishments in Taiwan has increased by 94.6% since 2019, while total sales have risen by 94.3%. As of 2024, there were 543 registered tattoo service providers in Taiwan, generating NT$440 million (US$13.4 million) in revenue.
