In recent years, the popularity of photobooth studios in South Korea has exploded, and it's not difficult to see why. 

These small, unstaffed booths have become a hub for Gen Z to come together and create lasting memories with their friends. Whether they're imitating famous poses from viral TikTok videos or donning quirky props like pink glasses and plush pig hats, the opportunities for fun and creativity are endless.

For many young people, visiting these photobooths has become a staple of their social lives. University student Choi Hui Je visits a studio almost every time he goes out with friends, averaging around five to seven times a month. He explained to CNN, "It's a necessary stop. We go for food, karaoke, café, and then the photo studio." Likewise, student Jenny Dall'alba estimates that she has visited these photobooths over 70 times in the past few years alone.



Part of what makes these photo studios so popular is their affordability. For a small fee of around 4,000 won or $3, customers can purchase a photo strip filled with their favorite images. Business owners like Kim Joo Hyun see these studios as a relatively safe investment opportunity with a profit margin of around 50%. With no government permit required to operate, opening a photo studio is a simple and accessible business venture for many entrepreneurs.



As these photo studios become increasingly popular, they've also become a space for creative expression. Many visitors enjoy experimenting with different props and frames to create unique and memorable photos. Some even go so far as to copy poses from their favorite K-pop stars or anime characters. For instance, Choi Hui Je channels the expressive memes of the pink beaver character Zanmang Loopy from the 2003 South Korean animation Pororo the Little Penguin.

While these photo booths have been around for over two decades, their recent surge in popularity can be attributed to the age of social media and post-pandemic living. Social media platforms like Instagram are filled with over 1.1 million posts featuring the hashtag Life4Cuts, with everyone from K-pop stars to influencers sharing their photo booth experiences. In a time where daily life can be stressful and challenging, these photo studios offer a chance for young people to let loose, have fun, and make lasting memories.