Though tattooing is still technically illegal in Korea without a medical license, the number of talented artists has surged, and they’re making their mark worldwide.

The neighborhoods Itaewon, Samcheong-dong and Hongdae are popular with the city’s creatives. Three of them give their recommendations on what to do there when visiting.

A chef, an artist and a gallerist share their top spots, from a neighborly bar that gives way to a block party to a centuries-old…