KORU is one of Los Angeles’ distinctive, artistically refined tattoo studios, founded three years ago by internationally recognized tattoo artist Pony Wave. Since opening its doors, the studio has steadily built a reputation not only for technical excellence, but for depth, meaning, and aesthetic integrity. Today, KORU is considered one of Los Angeles’ premier tattoo studios for those seeking work that goes beyond decoration and becomes a true artistic statement.
Pony Wave is especially known for her realistic floral compositions, a direction that requires exceptional precision, advanced technique, and a sophisticated artistic eye. Realistic botanical work requires a deep understanding of color transitions, light and shadow, and natural form. This approach shaped the studio’s core philosophy: tattoos should feel alive, intentional, and timeless. Every design is created with attention to composition, placement, and the client’s individuality, ensuring that each piece harmonizes with the body.
Over the past three years, KORU has evolved into a large professional studio with a strong and diverse team of talented artists. The studio offers a wide range of styles, including fine-line tattoos, black-and-grey realism, color realism, floral and botanical compositions, ornamental designs, and fully custom artistic projects. This stylistic diversity enables KORU to serve clients with diverse aesthetic preferences, from delicate, minimalist tattoos to complex, large-scale works that require multiple sessions and detailed planning.
One of KORU’s defining characteristics is its atmosphere. The studio space is thoughtfully designed to create a calm, inspiring environment. Filled with live plants, soft natural light, and carefully curated interior details, KORU feels more like a contemporary art gallery than a traditional tattoo shop. The environment reflects the studio’s belief that the creative process deserves respect, focus, and comfort. Clients often report feeling a sense of ease and trust the moment they step inside.
In the summer of 2025, the studio entered a significant new chapter with a rebrand and a strategic partnership with tattoo artist Yana Liner. Together with Pony Wave and the team, the studio adopted a new name: KORU. The word “Koru” refers to the spiral of an unfurling fern, an ancient symbol of renewal, growth, harmony, and forward movement. This symbol perfectly reflects the studio’s values and long-term vision. The rebrand was not simply a name change, but an evolution that aligned the space’s identity with its deeper philosophy.
KORU is more than just a tattoo studio in Los Angeles. It is a creative community that continuously expands its horizons. Beyond tattooing, the team develops visual content, collaborates on artistic and musical projects, and hosts art-focused gatherings and workshops. The goal is to transform the studio into a multidisciplinary creative platform where different forms of expression intersect.
With strong artistic leadership, a talented team, and a clear vision for the future, KORU continues to grow as a cultural and creative space. It stands as a testament to how tattooing, when approached with intention and artistry, can become a powerful form of personal and visual storytelling.
