Swedish YouTuber Shares Shocking Experience at Japanese Airport Over Tattoos

A Swedish YouTuber, known as 스웨국인, recently recounted a troubling experience he faced at a Japanese airport due to his tattoos of the South Korean flag (태극기) and the national flower, the hibiscus (무궁화). In a video titled 'Why I Faced Racial Discrimination and Interrogation at a Japanese Airport Over My Tattoos,' he shared that this incident occurred a year ago during a week-long trip to Japan, marking his seventh year living in South Korea.

Upon arriving at the airport, customs officials noticed his tattoos and questioned him with a stern expression, asking, 'What kind of tattoo is this?' He explained, 'I have lived in Korea for seven years, and I wanted to permanently express my love for the country, the people I've met, and the culture I've experienced through these tattoos.' However, the official responded sharply, questioning why a foreigner would tattoo Korean symbols on his body.

Despite his attempts to convey his deep affection for Korea, the official remained cold, stating, 'This is something only Koreans usually do.' Feeling overwhelmed, 스웨국인 was then taken to a security interview room for further questioning, which lasted about 30 minutes. He was asked about who suggested the tattoos, what activities he had engaged in while in Korea, and the reasons behind his choice of designs.

Reflecting on the experience, he expressed feelings of anger and sadness, stating, 'I felt like I was in North Korea. It was disheartening to experience this in Japan in 2024.' He reiterated to the officials that the tattoos were not merely decorative but represented his time in Korea, the warmth he felt, and his emotional connection to the country.

Although he was eventually granted entry, 스웨국인 noted that he did not receive an apology or explanation for the interrogation. He emphasized that his tattoos symbolize more than just aesthetics; they embody the spirit, history, and significance of Korea, and he has since been more proactive in explaining their meaning.

Reactions from netizens included expressions of gratitude for his love of Korea and disbelief over the interrogation he faced due to his tattoos. Some commenters suggested that having tattoos can complicate the entry process into Japan, although there are no specific regulations regarding tattoos in the country's immigration policies.