Introduction
Tattoos have become popular with younger citizens and among high-profile Chinese players. Last year, the General Administration of Sport of China (GAS) issued a directive with a statement heading "Suggestions for strengthening the management of football players," to set out the disciplinary rules for national team members. It said athletes shall not have tattoos to fully demonstrate a positive spirit and “set a good example for society.” Let’s talk about this.
China Banned National Soccer Players From Having Tattoos Apr 14
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High-profile Chinese players with tattoos include defender Zhang Linpeng, one of the team's best and most experienced players. He has been told to cover it up during his national and local games. Midfielder Xu Xin and captain Wu Xi also have ink on their skin.
What major sport does your country always compete internationally? Which player do you idolize?
However, under the new guidelines, everyone is forbidden from getting future tattoos. For players in under 20 and below division teams, having one will become a hindrance to being recruited to national teams. While those with existing tattoos should have them erased or covered.
Are tattoos frowned upon in your country? What is your stand about having tattoos?
This isn't the first time China has taken a strong stand against tattoos. In 2018, during a crackdown on “hip hop culture, subculture, and immoral culture,” China's media regulator granted an order saying that “actors with tattoos” should not appear on Chinese television.
Which famous people have tattoos that you know of? When you see somebody with a lot of tattoos what do you think?
It is against Confucian values of filial piety and avoiding bodily damage, which is instilled in children by their parents. Carrie Wiebe, a Chinese professor at Middlebury College in the US said that “In Confucian culture, you’re supposed to return your body to the ground as your parents gave it to you, unblemished, no piercings or tattoos.”
Do you have any tattoos? If you were to get a tattoo, what would it be?
Tattoos were also used to punish criminals and mark slaves in Chinese history. It was also considered a symbol of uncivilization among ethnic groups. In the US, it is usually seen as rebellious, irresponsible, and unprofessional.
Do you think negative stigma towards tattoo culture has lessened? Do you think it has become more accepted than in the past?
Any form of body art is still associated with negative stereotypes and an issue in the workplace. But we should not be quick to judge based on a person’s outer expression. A boss or client judging a highly qualified worker based on their appearance is even more disrespectful.
Have you ever wondered how tattoos stay on skin? Do you think tattoos add anything spiritual/symbolic to life?