How to Use Korean Self-Service Photo Booths in Korea (When the Menu Is Only in Korean)

The Problem Many Foreigners Face

You step into a Korean self-service photo booth for a quick passport photo or a document printout. The screen turns on—and everything is in Korean. No English option, no staff nearby, and people are waiting behind you.
You tap a few buttons, hoping for the best, but you end up with the wrong size, the wrong file, or an unnecessary purchase. It’s stressful and often costly to redo the process.

If you’ve ever stepped into a Korean photo booth and frozen in panic because every button was in Korean, you’re not alone. Many foreigners assume they made a mistake or entered the wrong booth, but this is completely normal in Korea. Once you understand just a few key words and the typical screen flow, using a self service photo booth becomes fast, fun, and surprisingly addictive.

Why This Happens in Korea

Most photo booths in Korea are designed for locals who use them for fun “sticker photos,” not official documents.
Because of this:

• English menus are rarely included.
• The booths are fully automated, so help is usually not available.
• If you don’t read Korean, navigating the interface becomes trial and error.

How to Use a Korean Photo Booth (Step-by-Step)

1. Find the “증명사진” button

This means “ID photo” or “passport-style photo.”
Avoid anything labeled “스티커사진,” which refers to decorative photo modes.

2. Choose the document type using icons

• Passport photos usually show a simple headshot icon.
• Resume/ID photos often display a small person silhouette.
  If you see “여권사진,” that’s passport. “증명” refers to general ID photos.

3. Adjust your frame

Most booths show guidelines for head and shoulder placement.
Use the arrows to adjust your position, then press the green or blue button to confirm.

4. Complete the payment

Insert your card or tap your phone.
Useful words to recognize:

• “결제” (pay)
• “확인” (confirm)
  Avoid “취소,” which means cancel.

5. Collect prints and download the digital file

Many booths include a QR code on the screen or printout.
Scan it to save a digital version—ideal for immigration, school forms, or online applications.

What to Avoid

• Menus with emojis, hearts, or colorful borders (these are for sticker photos).
• Heavy auto-retouching, which may cause issues with embassy or immigration offices.
• Confirming the first layout you see—always check for passport/ID labels.

Quick Survival Tip

Save screenshots of the key Korean words “증명사진 (ID photo)” and “여권사진 (passport photo)” on your phone.
When you’re at the booth, match them to the screen and you’ll find the right option quickly.

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