As you walk down the streets of Korea, you will likely see them everywhere—shops with bright lights and cute, sparkling signs. In fact, these are the playgrounds of Korea’s Gen Z: “Unmanned Photo Booths”!

However, if you think these are just old-school sticker photo machines, think again. On the contrary, this is a “culture” and a form of “play.” Therefore, I invite you to the world of K-Photo Booths, where a mere 4,000 to 5,000 KRW buys you the perfect memory of your trip!

1. One Click, A Burst of Laughter! This is the ‘K-Photo Booth’ Vibe

Korean photo booths aren’t just about taking a picture and leaving. From the moment you enter until you leave, the entire process is pure entertainment.

“Today, I’m the Main Character!” Unlimited Props Room

The first thing you’ll notice upon entering is the wall filled with props. From goofy sunglasses to cute animal headbands and princess tiaras! Don’t be shy—try them on and snap some mirror selfies. And of course, there’s a powder room area with hair straighteners to fix your hair before the shoot!

The Photos Move? The Magic QR Code

Once your printed photos come out, don’t miss the QR code in the corner. If you scan it with your smartphone, you can download not only the high-quality digital photos but also a “Timelapse Video” showing you and your friends posing awkwardly. Consequently, it’s absolutely perfect for Instagram Stories!

A Tourist Favorite: “A Two-Shot with My Bias?”

Recently, the reason photo booths have exploded in popularity among tourists is the “Idol Frames.” Specifically, limited-edition frames featuring collaborations with famous K-POP idols are released frequently. In other words, it’s a chance to take a photo as if your favorite star is standing right next to you. Thus, it’s an essential stop for any K-Pop “fan tour”!

Wait, “Sticker photos on a business trip?”

If that’s what you’re thinking, think again! Among global CEOs and business travelers visiting Korea, photo booths are known as a “Hidden Business Hack.” Here are just three reasons why:

The Perfect Ice-Breaker

After a dinner or drinks with Korean partners, this is the magic spot to instantly melt away any awkwardness. Squeezing into a small booth, wearing silly glasses, and leaning in for a photo turns “business partners” into “friends” in seconds. One photo taken with loosened ties creates a bond stronger than a hundred words.

Fits in Your Wallet! The World’s Thinnest Souvenir

Heavy souvenirs are just luggage. But a 4-cut photo strip is the perfect size to slip into a business card holder or passport case. On your flight home, or back at your desk, looking at this photo will remind you of your successful meetings and fun memories in Korea.

“K-Trend” Market Research in 5 Minutes

Korea is a country sensitive to IT and trends. A photo booth is the most efficient “market research” site where you can experience Korea’s unmanned store systems (Kiosks), QR code integration tech, and Gen Z’s play culture for just 4,000 KRW. If you want to feel the youthful energy of Korea in a short time, there is no better place.

2. Where Should You Go? A Brand Guide for Your Taste

Think all the photo booths on the street look the same? Absolutely not! Each brand offers a completely different color tone and vibe. Find the one that suits your style.

① The Class of the Original, [Life Four Cuts (Insaeng Ne-cut)]

• Features: The brand is so famous that “Life Four Cuts” has become the generic term for photo booths in Korea.

• Recommendation: It has the most locations, making it easy to find, and actively collaborates with Disney and popular characters. With its signature pink interior and fail-proof “soft-focus” filters, anyone can get a satisfying result.

② The Hipster’s Holy Land, [Photo Gray]

• Features: As the name suggests, it’s a sophisticated and urban brand. They use DSLR cameras for sharp, professional quality.

• Recommendation: The lighting is excellent for defining facial features. With many gray or deep-colored backgrounds, this is highly recommended for those wanting a chic and “hip” vibe.

③ Making a Cool-Tone Goddess, [Haru Film]

• Features: The legendary brand where Korean women famously “line up to take photos.”

• Recommendation: Their unique “cloud background” and filters that make skin look white and transparent are unrivaled. If you want to look 1.5 times brighter and more radiant than usual, this is the place to go!

④ Pure Y2K Vibes, [Don’t Look Up]

• Features: The hottest trend right now! It’s a “High-Angle” booth where you look up at a camera mounted on the ceiling, not straight ahead.

• Recommendation: The unwritten rule here is to wear sunglasses and pose like a hip-hop music video star! If you want a unique angle different from everyone else, give this a try.

Editor’s Tip: Most Korean photo booths operate unmanned 24 hours a day. If you’re out late traveling and don’t want the night to end, drop by anytime. No cash? No worries! All machines accept credit cards.

So, are you ready? Grab your friend’s hand and say this: “Shall we go take a Life 4 Cuts?”