Polynesian tattooing originates from the ancestral societies of Fiji, Samoa, and Tonga, the cultural foundation of Polynesia. Tattooing was more than body art—it was a sacred rite of passage, symbolizing genealogy, social status, and spiritual protection. King ‘Afa continues this legacy through authentic designs rooted in ancient motifs, honoring the pukepuke fonua philosophy of Tonga. This journal covers the historical context of Polynesian tattoos, tattoo ink safety, cultural protocols, and the importance of respecting the sacred boundaries of Pacific Island traditions. Learn how King ‘Afa blends tradition with modern science to protect both culture and health.
