Story & Lesson Highlights with dongkyu lee of Los Angeles

We’re looking forward to introducing you to dongkyu lee. Check out our conversation below.

dongkyu, so good to connect and we’re excited to share your story and insights with our audience. There’s a ton to learn from your story, but let’s start with a warm up before we get into the heart of the interview. When was the last time you felt true joy?
I felt true joy when I went to a techno rave with my friends. The last set we saw was Charlotte de Witte, and it was incredible.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi, I’m Q, a tattoo artist and creative director based in Los Angeles. I run Nonfromseoul, a collective of international artists where we blend tattooing with fine art, design, and modern culture.

My work focuses on detailed, emotionally driven pieces—often influenced by sculpture, architecture, mythology, and the unique stories my clients share with me. What makes our brand special is the way we build experiences, not just tattoos: every design is treated like a collaborative artwork, and every artist in our team brings a distinct cultural and stylistic perspective.

Right now, we’re expanding our projects into product design, packaging, brand collaborations, and global guest spots. I’m always working to bridge Korean and international art cultures, and to create a space where artists can grow, experiment, and express freely.

Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. What did you believe about yourself as a child that you no longer believe?
When I was young, I never believed I would become someone impressive or remarkable. But now, I genuinely believe that I’m not that person anymore.

Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
I’ve had many moments when I wanted to give up — and honestly, I actually did give up a few times.
When I was trying to open the Nonfromseoul studio, there were so many obstacles that it felt like the whole world was blocking my path. If there were ten problems, not a single one would get solved, and before I could catch my breath, another ten new problems would stack on top of them. Those were the moments when I truly felt like quitting.

But the interesting thing is… when you don’t give up, even in those moments, somehow you find yourself getting to the end eventually.
I don’t think giving up is necessarily a bad thing — sometimes you should let go when it’s the right time. But when you choose not to give up, it feels like life eventually rewards you with the results you were fighting for.

Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? How do you differentiate between fads and real foundational shifts?
I think the difference is that fads come from external influences, while real foundational change begins from within.

Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. If you knew you had 10 years left, what would you stop doing immediately?
I think I would stop working. I’d immediately quit all the day-to-day work I do. I’d spend my time traveling and chasing adventure instead. I believe I have enough to live without working for ten years, so each year I’d go somewhere new, seek new experiences and adventures, and live fully. I wouldn’t worry about preparing for old age or planning for family—I’d spend everything I have on living, experiencing the world, and then leave it when it’s time.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.nonfromseoul.com/
• Instagram: Q_tattoos
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@qtattoo797