A 14-year-old boy in Chonburi, Thailand, secretly visited a tattoo parlour and had a massive sword-wielding figure inked from his chest down to his abdomen. His father was furious when he discovered the tattoo and immediately filed a police report, accusing the shop of negligence and disregard for the law.
The father argued that the parlour failed to check the teenager’s age and did not obtain parental consent before carrying out the tattoo. He also expressed concern that such a permanent decision could jeopardise his son’s future, particularly if he wishes to apply for jobs in the civil service or industries where strict grooming standards are required.
With a lawyer by his side, the father brought his son to the police station to lodge a formal complaint. He stressed that tattoo shops have a duty to act responsibly and not place financial gain above the welfare of children.
Police Investigation Into Tattoo Shop Practices
Initial police checks revealed that the tattoo shop did not ask the teenager for identification nor seek permission from his parents. Authorities also discovered that the same parlour had provided tattoos to several other individuals below the age of 20.
The case is now being reviewed under Thailand’s Child Protection Act, as well as public health and business licensing laws. Police are investigating whether the parlour’s actions amounted to serious legal violations.
The assisting lawyer urged stricter enforcement to ensure tattoo parlours adhere to ethical standards and protect minors from making life-altering decisions prematurely.
Public Debate Over Teenagers and Tattoos
The incident quickly went viral on Thai social media, where public opinion was divided. Many netizens demanded tougher regulations to stop tattoo artists from accepting underage clients, while others argued that teenagers should have the freedom to express themselves, even through body art.
Under Thai law, tattooing a minor without parental consent may constitute a criminal offence. The outcome of this case could influence how authorities handle underage tattooing in future, with possible implications for the wider tattoo industry.
For Singapore readers, this case serves as a reminder of how legal systems balance youth protection with personal freedom—an issue that often sparks debate across cultures.