35×45 mm Photos for Korean Documents

Which documents use the 35×45 mm format?

The 35×45 mm photo format is the standard size for most official Korean documents:

• Korean Passport (여권)
• Korean Driver’s License (운전면허증)
• Korean Visa Applications (비자 신청)
• Alien Registration Card (ARC) (외국인등록증) - 30×40 mm variant
• Work Permits (취업허가)
• Student Visas (학생비자)
• Other official Korean documents

Mandatory Technical Specifications

Exact Dimensions

• Size: 35 × 45 mm (width × height)
• Face height: 32–36 mm (from chin to top of head)
• Face-to-photo ratio: Approximately 70-80% of total height
• Position: Centered horizontally and vertically

Image Quality Standards

• Resolution: Minimum 300 DPI for printing
• Digital format: High-quality JPEG
• File size: Between 100 KB and 2 MB
• Color: Color required (not black and white)
• Sharpness: Perfectly in focus with no blur

Background and Composition

• Background: Plain white (some documents accept light blue)
• No elements: Free of patterns, textures, or decorative elements
• Lighting: Even, without pronounced shadows
• Contrast: Sufficient between subject and background

Official Korean Standards

Position and Expression Requirements

• Position: Frontal, looking directly at the camera
• Expression: Neutral, serious expression (no smiling)
• Eyes: Open, clearly visible, looking at the camera
• Head: Straight, without lateral tilt

Clothing and Accessories Guidelines

• Clothing: Dark colors for contrast with light background
• Glasses: Clear lenses only, no reflections or tinted glasses
• Jewelry: Minimal, not interfering with identification
• Makeup: Natural, without drastic changes in appearance

Important Korean-Specific Restrictions

• Head coverings: Only for religious or medical reasons
• Expressions: No smiling, grimacing, or gestures
• Closed eyes: Not permitted under any circumstances
• Digital filters: Completely prohibited

Tips for Perfect Korean Document Photos

Professional Photography

• Document photo specialists: Experts with Korean requirements
• Professional equipment: Ensures quality and compliance
• Updated knowledge: Current with Korean government requirements
• Multiple copies: Get several copies for applications

Quality Control

• Measure dimensions: Verify exact 35×45 mm size
• Check face height: Ensure 32-36 mm measurement
• Review quality: Sharp focus and proper exposure
• Print quality: Use high-quality photo paper
• Recent photos: Ensure taken within 6 months

Where to Get Professional Photos in Korea

Government Office Areas

• Immigration offices: Photo shops near HiKorea centers
• Passport offices: Studios near Ministry of Foreign Affairs
• Driver’s license centers: Photo services at testing centers
• District offices: Local photo services

Major Cities and Districts

Seoul

• Gangnam: Professional studios in business district
• Myeongdong: Tourist-friendly photo services
• Hongdae: Student-oriented affordable options
• Jongno: Traditional photo studios near government offices

Busan

• Seomyeon: Central business district studios
• Haeundae: Tourist area photo services
• Sasang: Near immigration and government offices

Other Major Cities

• Incheon: Airport and port area services
• Daegu: Downtown professional studios
• Daejeon: University and government area services
• Gwangju: City center photo studios

Service Types

• Professional studios: High-quality, experienced photographers
• Photo booths: Quick service in subway stations and malls
• Department stores: Photo centers in Lotte, Shinsegae
• Online services: Upload and delivery options

Indicative Costs in Korea (2024)

• Professional photo studio: ₩8,000-20,000
• Government office area: ₩8,000-15,000
• Photo booth: ₩5,000-10,000
• Department store: ₩10,000-18,000
• Additional copies: ₩2,000-5,000 per copy

Korean Administrative Context

Government Agencies

• Ministry of Foreign Affairs: Passport services
• Korea Immigration Service: Visa and ARC services
• Road Traffic Authority: Driver’s license services
• District offices: Various document services

Digital Services

• HiKorea: Online immigration services
• Gov.kr: Government service portal
• SafeDriving.or.kr: Driver’s license services
• Visa.go.kr: Visa application services

Language Support

• Korean: Primary language for all services
• English: Available at major centers
• Chinese: Limited availability
• Other languages: Varies by location

Common Issues and Solutions

Photo Rejection Reasons

• Wrong size: Not exactly 35×45 mm dimensions
• Poor quality: Blurry, pixelated, or low resolution
• Background issues: Not white or has patterns/shadows
• Expression problems: Smiling or inappropriate expressions

Prevention Tips

• Use experienced photographers: Choose studios familiar with Korean requirements
• Verify specifications: Double-check size and quality before printing
• Get multiple copies: Order extras for future applications
• Keep digital copies: Save high-resolution digital versions

If Photos Are Rejected

• Understand reason: Ask for specific rejection explanation
• Retake immediately: Don’t delay getting new photos
• Use different studio: Try a more experienced photographer
• Verify requirements: Check for any updated guidelines

Special Considerations

For Foreigners in Korea

• Language barriers: Bring translation or use translation apps
• Cultural differences: Understand Korean photo standards
• Document requirements: Ensure all paperwork is complete
• Processing times: Allow extra time for verification

For Korean Citizens Abroad

• Consular services: Available at Korean embassies
• Local photo standards: May need Korean-specific requirements
• Shipping considerations: Plan for document delivery times
• Verification process: Additional steps for overseas applications

Seasonal Considerations

• Peak times: Avoid busy periods (graduation, holiday seasons)
• Weather: Indoor studios recommended year-round
• Appointment booking: Reserve in advance during busy periods
• Holiday closures: Plan around Korean holidays

Need perfect 35×45 mm photos for your Korean documents? Our AI-powered tool ensures your photos meet all official Korean government requirements for quick approval.