Why Blackpink Lisa's tattoo reveal is big deal in a culture that frowns upon tattoos

The Bulgari Serpenti Event in Seoul, South Korea celebrated 75 years of iconic design on June 29, featuring a lineup of K-pop idols known for their iconic looks. However, it was Blackpink member Lisa who stole the spotlight with her distinctive "Tooth Gem" jewelry. Fans also took notice of her viral back tattoo.

Blackpink Lisa

Lalisa Manoban, widely recognized as Lisa, is the main rapper of the K-pop girl group Blackpink. Since 2020, she has served as a brand ambassador for the luxury jewelry brand Bulgari.

As a fashion icon, Lisa has set trends in South Korea, such as sporting full fringe or bangs, wearing subtle eyeliner, and opting for minimal makeup.

During the Bulgari Serpenti event, Lisa stood out in a stunning full white backless satin dress. The internet dubbed her white look ethereal, angelic, and the epitome of beauty.

While posing for the cameras, Lisa's iconic "Tooth Gem" jewelry caught everyone's attention. Subsequently, fans also noticed her fully revealed back tattoo, showcased alongside her backless white satin dress.

The tattoo first came to light when Harper's Bazaar Singapore released teasers on March 1, featuring a close-up cover shot.

Lisa's tattoo features her favorite flower, an Edelweiss, which she incorporated into her Bulgari x Lisa watch design. The flower symbolizes devotion.

Given South Korea's controversial history with tattoos, her tattoo has garnered significant attention.

Tattoo norms in Korea

• In South Korea, only licensed medical practitioners can operate tattoo parlors, but individuals are allowed to have tattoos.

   

• The military is the only institution that prohibits tattoos, though individuals can get them after completing their military service. 

• Older generations in South Korea generally hold negative perceptions of tattoos and those who have them.

Even within the K-pop industry, there have been rules for idols, including covering up their tattoos. However, idols have started flaunting their tattoos, sparking ongoing debates about their open display.

K-pop idols with tattoos

As Lisa garners attention for her tattoos, here is a list of other famous K-pop idols known for their visible tattoos:

1. BTS Jungkook

Jungkook gained swift attention on Twitter during BTS's 2021 Muster Sowoozoo event when a behind-the-scenes video revealed the tattoos on his right arm. His sleeve features tattoos of a snake, tiger, clock, flower, and more.

Notably, he has sentimental tattoos like the number 7 behind his ear, symbolizing the friendship among the seven BTS members, and the word "Army" across his knuckles, dedicated to BTS fans known as ARMY.

2. Hyuna
Hyuna has over 25 tattoos on her body, some of which date back to her time as part of the girl group 4Minute.

3. Got7 Jackson Wang
Jackson Wang, a member of the K-pop band Got7, has numerous tattoos paying tribute to his Chinese heritage.

4. Jay park
Jay Park, a Korean-American singer, rapper, and songwriter, is famous for his tattoos. He often displays his tattoos during public appearances, such as concerts and music videos, and his frequent shirtless performances allow fans to appreciate his captivating body art.

Bulgari Serpenti event and K-pop idols

Given that the Bulgari Serpenti event took place in Seoul, several famous idols participated. As the event focused on a luxury jewelry brand, the idols opted for minimal outfits to highlight the jewelry they wore.

Apart from Lisa, Felix from the K-pop boy band Stray Kids gained recognition as the "Blue Angel" for his vibrant blue hair color.

Hwasa, a member of the popular K-pop girl group Mamamoo, wore a plain black dress paired with statement jewelry.

The extraordinary duo of Jungwoon and Niki from the K-pop band Enhypen, and Dong Hae from the K-pop band Super Junior, were also in attendance.

After the event, Bulgari CEO JC Babin posted a picture of himself with Lisa, along with a question mark in the caption, hinting at a new collaboration and expressing anticipation for Lisa's presence at Paris Couture Week. Fans are excitedly looking forward to future events.