South Korea
Photo requirements for passports, visas, and ID cards. Includes dimensions, background rules, and biometric requirements for 1 document type.
Helpful pages for document photos in South Korea
Use these pages to move from country-level requirements to a specific document format, troubleshooting help, and print guidance.
Main document requirements
Open the main document requirements page for this country to see dimensions, background rules, and face-position guidance.
Why photos get rejected
Fix the most common background, framing, and expression problems.
Passport Photo Size Guide
Compare this country's dimensions with other common formats.
How to print passport photos
Print at home or at a pharmacy without scaling errors.
About photo requirements
When applying for a travel document in South Korea, adhering to the strict standards set by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is essential for a smooth approval process. South Korean passport photos are known for their precision and specific dimensions, which ensure facial recognition technology functions correctly. Whether you are renewing or applying for the first time, following the official guidelines is the best way to avoid delays.
The mandatory size for a South Korean passport photo is 35mm by 45mm, with the head occupying 32mm to 36mm of the vertical space. You must use a plain white background with no shadows, and your expression should be neutral with both ears and eyebrows clearly visible. Clear prescription glasses are permitted, but tinted lenses are not allowed. Head coverings are strictly prohibited unless worn for religious or medical reasons, provided the face remains fully exposed.
See the full 35 × 45 mm §t:b196151d§ specifications for exact dimensions, face position, and background rules.
For online applications, the digital photo must be a JPG or JPEG file. Check your country's official portal for exact file size limits and pixel dimensions. If you prefer a quick and reliable way to prepare these files at home, idpic.app offers a free alternative to ensure your image complies with all technical standards.
Common issues
The most frequent reason for rejection is an improper background colour or the presence of shadows behind the head. Applicants are also often rejected for having hair that obscures the eyebrows or ears, as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs requires a clear view of the facial features. Additionally, photos that are digitally retouched to alter natural appearance are almost always rejected during the verification process.
Learn more about common passport photo rejection reasons and how to fix them, or check our passport photo size guide for a global comparison.
Local tips
South Korea is famous for its high-quality photo booths, often found in subway stations and shopping centres, which are specifically calibrated for passport requirements. Professional studios are also widely available and typically charge between 15,000 and 30,000 KRW for a full service including editing. If you choose to take a photo yourself, ensure you use a bright, evenly lit room and a tripod to maintain a perfectly level camera angle.
For a step-by-step walkthrough, see our DIY passport photo guide or learn how to print passport photos at home.
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