A thigh tattoo based on Hojakdo, a traditional Korean folk painting depicting a tiger, magpie, and pine tree as symbols of protection, good fortune, and resilience.
Hojakdo, one of the most iconic themes in Korean folk painting, depicts a tiger together with a magpie.
In minhwa, the tiger is portrayed not only as a powerful animal, but also with a humorous and approachable expression. The magpie represents joyful news and good fortune, while the pine tree symbolizes endurance and lasting vitality.
For this piece, I focused on the tiger’s rounded, playful expression and movement, composing the magpie and pine tree above it as part of a single connected scene.
I wanted the wit and auspicious meaning of traditional Hojakdo to remain naturally present on the skin.
View the full piece — Hojakdo on Onsil Ink →
