The secret beneath the tattoo

In South Korea, the bullying of people with tattoos and the push to legalize tattoo shops become entangled with a painful high-profile case from the past involving a young police officer. Choi Shaki, a quiet and composed inspector, has long hidden severe PTSD deep within his life. The mere sight of tattoos or even the touch of them can shake his condition so violently that he can barely control himself. Yet the very country he serves begins pushing forward legislation to make tattooing a legal profession, driving him almost to the brink of madness. Soon after, a murder occurs. The crime scene is deliberately left with clues pointing toward someone who uses tattoo equipment. The incident quickly sparks a new wave of controversy, reigniting public debate that tattooists are violent people who challenge the law and therefore should never be allowed to turn their work into a legitimate profession. But the story does not end there. Somewhere in the shadows, someone is watching the chaos unfolding in society… with quiet satisfaction. ** Choi Shaki A young police inspector with a calm, reserved personality and strong emotional control. On the outside he appears to be a composed and rational officer, but deep inside he hides severe PTSD caused by a traumatic case from the past. Former Commissioner Choi Shaki’s father and a former police commissioner who handled many major cases throughout his career. His health is no longer as strong as before, but he continues to worry about his son and quietly watch over his life. Park Yobo A highly skilled tattoo artist well known within the tattoo community and one of the people actively pushing for tattooing to be legally recognized in South Korea. Confident and talented, he is respected by many tattoo artists in the industry. Sang-oh An important figure within the tattoo community who often acts as a mediator and coordinator among tattoo artists. With extensive connections throughout the industry, he is usually one of the first to know about news and developments within the field. Content Warning This novel contains themes of violence, murder, psychological trauma, and PTSD, as well as sensitive issues related to bullying, discrimination, and social conflict surrounding tattoos. Some scenes may include descriptions of violent or emotionally intense situations that may not be suitable for sensitive readers. Reader discretion is advised.