Baegi Seoul / South Korea @bgxgrim nihilbaeg2@gmail.com
- 11 hours ago
- 3 min read
Based in Seoul, Baegi is a Korean tattoo artist who has developed his career through constant experimentation and the co-founding of Frame studio. His current work focuses on abstract blackwork and dark designs that adapt organically to the body. His approach stands out for its intuitive nature, prioritizing freehand creation and direct collaboration with each client.
Why did you choose tattooing, and what was it that initially captivated you about this art form?
I’ve loved drawing and creating things since I was young, and I actually had a lot of tattoos myself. I was intrigued by the idea of wearing something I actively chose and living with that responsibility. At first, I simply wanted to carve my own designs onto my own body. Naturally, that desire deepened over time, driving me to study and immerse myself in the art form.
How has the evolution of your signature style progressed to what it is today?
Looking back at my timeline, I’ve experimented with so many different styles. Whenever a certain element or aesthetic caught my eye, I would explore and research it. That journey naturally led me to where I am today, and I believe my style will continue to evolve as I keep researching and growing.
What is the complete experience of getting a tattoo with you like, from the initial concept to the actual session?
I usually work freehand, which makes it very easy to collaborate and adapt with clients on the day of the session. While some clients bring references for inspiration, many place their complete trust in me. I typically send a concept sketch prior to the session, fine-tune the design together on the day of, and continuously adjust and refine the piece throughout the process until it’s finished.
What was the development and creation process of your studio alongside Hoon Kim like?
Hoon Kim and I met around 2015 in a Facebook group. As our bond grew, I shared my vision of creating a team called 'Frame' one day. Hoon was very receptive to the idea, and now we’ve been building it together for quite a long time. Since I tend to push forward head-on, he has been a deeply inspiring colleague who balances me out and teaches me a lot.
How do you view social media as a tool for showcasing your work and connecting with your global audience?
I only use Instagram, though it’s something I constantly think about and ponder. For now, I just occasionally post pieces of my work alongside glimpses of my daily life.
Outside of the studio, you share a great passion for motorcycling. What value does this activity hold for you as a creative outlet or a source of inspiration?
Traffic in Seoul can be extremely congested, so motorcycling offers a huge practical advantage. Since I love nature, whenever the weather is nice or I have free time, I like to ride out to relax. It’s one of my few hobbies and my favorite way to recharge on days off.
What are your future plans and upcoming projects?
Currently, Korea is going through the process of legalizing tattooing, so I am making necessary preparations and adapting accordingly. Aside from that, I simply enjoy meeting good people and keeping a positive flow going.
What are the best methods to get in touch with you?
All inquiries are handled strictly via email.
Would you like to share any special message?
Many of my clients travel from abroad specifically for a project, spending time in Korea and enduring multiple intense sessions. I am deeply grateful to every one of them. I hope to keep studying and pushing myself to create even better work. Thank you for taking the time to read this feature, and I wish you all good flow in life.
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