Oowha Seoul, Korea @oowha_ oowhatattoo@gmail.com

In the heart of Seoul, South Korea, Oowha has been steadily building a name in the tattoo world thanks to her refined approach to black and grey realism. From a very young age, art was never just a hobby for her—it was a natural path, a vocation that shaped both her life and her career. With a style rooted in deep contrasts, emotion, and tonal precision, her work reflects not only her technical mastery but also her unique artistic vision.

Over the years, Oowha has gained international recognition, earning several awards at prestigious tattoo conventions. These achievements not only highlight her talent but also represent the dedication, sincerity, and passion she brings to every piece. Inspired by global influences—particularly the innovative styles emerging from Los Angeles and New York—she skillfully blends classic elements with contemporary trends, creating tattoos that feel both timeless and modern.

Although tattooing remains her main focus, Oowha shares the same passion for drawing, using it as a way to explore more experimental and expressive directions within her art. Looking ahead, she envisions expanding her creative journey: from strengthening her foundation as a tattoo artist to one day participating in art exhibitions, further uniting the world of tattooing with fine art.

In this exclusive interview, she tells us everything…

1.How did your first steps in the art world begin?

Honestly, I started drawing naturally from a very young age. I'm not exactly sure why, but ever since I was a child, I just assumed I would study art and turn it into a career. I never really considered any other path—creating art just felt like the most natural thing for me to do.

2. Do you remember your first experience tattooing?

I was so nervous during my first tattoo that the needle barely went in properly! Honestly, more than the tattooing itself, what I remember most is preparing the stencil. I had drawn it by hand, and I was so worried I might have to reapply it during the session that I ended up staying up all night making 3 or 4 hand-drawn copies of the same design. That part really stuck with me.

3. Why did you choose black & grey realism as your main style, and what do you enjoy the most about working in this technique?

I practiced sketching from a young age, so naturally I gravitated toward black and grey work. One of the things I enjoy most about this style is the wide range of tones I can explore—it brings a lot of depth and emotion to the piece.

4. Which artists or influences, both inside and outside the tattoo world, have shaped your path and the way you create?

There are honestly too many artists who inspire me to name them all, but I’ve been especially influenced by artists from the U.S.—particularly those based in Los Angeles and New York. Their work blends classic and trendy elements in a way that really resonates with me. One artist who stands out is Dr. Woo. :)

5. You have won several awards at international conventions. What do these recognitions mean to you?

To me, these awards feel like a form of validation—a recognition of my hard work and sincerity. They’ve also had a big impact on my work moving forward. They help me look at myself more objectively and push me to keep growing and improving.

6.What projects or directions are you currently working on within your art?

Right now, I'm focusing on drawing more. I enjoy working with the subjects I often use in my tattooing, but I also love the freedom to take bolder, more experimental approaches through my drawings.

7.How do you envision your career in the coming years? Do you have specific goals you’d like to achieve, such as opening your own studio, traveling more, or pursuing artistic projects outside of tattooing?

First, I want to solidify my foundation as a tattoo artist. Once I feel confident in that, I’d love to focus more on my artwork—possibly even participate in exhibitions someday. That would be a true honor.

8.Do you do guest spots?

At the moment, I’m not doing guest spots. I’m currently working in Seoul.

9.If someone wants to get in touch with you, what is the best way?

You can always reach out via email or DM—feel free to contact me anytime!

10. Is there anything you would like to add, or perhaps anyone you’d like to thank?

I’d like to thank my family. I went through many difficult times, and without their support, I wouldn’t have made it. I carry a deep sense of gratitude and love for them—there’s always a debt in my heart that I feel I can never fully repay.