Korea Photo Booths (Photomats) - Where to Find the Best Ones in Seoul

Korea Photo Booths: A Guide to Finding the Best Photomats in Seoul

After three years here, I've learned that photo booths—or "photomats" (포토부스) as locals call them—are basically a Korean cultural staple. Whether you need ID photos for your visa, want cute selfies with friends, or just love the aesthetic, photomats are everywhere and honestly pretty fun. Let me share where to find the best ones and what you should know.

What Makes Korean Photo Booths Special?

Korean photomats aren't just your standard passport photo booths. Most have fancy lighting, tons of digital filters, fun props, and editing features built right in. You get instant printed photos, plus digital copies you can take home via QR code or app. It's a whole experience, and honestly, the photos usually look way better than you'd expect.

Popular Photomats Locations in Seoul

Gangnam Area (강남)

Gangnam Station (강남역) - Exit 10, underground shopping area has at least 3-4 photomats. Always crowded but reliable.

COEX Mall (코엑스) - B1 level has multiple booths with premium equipment. Usually less crowded than Gangnam Station.

Myeongdong (명동)

This shopping district is packed with photomats. Just walk around and you'll spot them—they're usually lit up with colorful signs.

Try the ones inside Lotte Young Plaza or scattered throughout the street-level shops.

Hongdae (홍대)

The artsy vibe means more unique, trendy photomats. Check around Hongdae Street and near the university.

These tend to have cooler filter options and props.

Sinchon (신촌)

Another university area with tons of photomats catering to students. Usually cheaper options here.

Prices and What to Expect

Most standard photomats cost 4,000-8,000 KRW depending on the booth and location:

Basic booths (older style): 4,000-5,000 KRW

Premium booths (newer, better lighting/filters): 6,000-8,000 KRW

Special booths (COEX, fancy locations): up to 10,000 KRW

You usually get 4 photos per session, plus instant prints and digital copies.

How to Use Them (If You're New)

Insert your card or cash

Select your preferred filter/theme on the touchscreen

Wait for the countdown and take your shots (usually 3-4 poses)

Edit your photos on the screen (add stickers, frames, brightness adjustments)

Print and get QR code for digital copies

Most booths let you email or app-share your photos

My Honest Tips

Go with friends - It's more fun and you get better group shots. Plus, the photos are cheaper per person when split.

Check out "Photomatch" app - This app (available on Android and iOS) lets you find photomats near you and see reviews. Super helpful.

Hongdae and Myeongdong have the best filters - Gangnam booths are convenient but feel more corporate.

Go on weekdays if you want quick access - Weekends, especially near Gangnam Station, can have 20+ minute waits.

Bring cash - Most accept cards, but having 10,000 KRW in coins is helpful.

Quick Personal Recommendation

Honestly? If you want the best experience, head to COEX Mall in Gangnam. Yes, it's slightly pricier, but the lighting is incredible, the props are actually fun (not just random plastic stuff), and it's way less crowded than the street-level booths. I go there when I have friends visiting because the photos actually look professional.

Photo booths are such a uniquely Korean thing, and after using them dozens of times, I genuinely think they're worth checking out. You'll end up with fun memories and actual quality photos—way better than most phone selfies!