🇰🇷 South Korea Passport Photo Requirements (2026 Guide)
Photo Dimensions
South Korean passport photos must be 35 mm wide x 45 mm tall (1.38 x 1.77 inches). For online applications through the Korean Immigration Service, use 413 x 531 pixels at 300 DPI. File size must be between 100 KB and 500 KB in JPEG format.
Background Requirements
The background must be pure white. South Korea is strict about this — off-white, cream, or light grey backgrounds will be rejected. The background must be uniform with no shadows, patterns, or gradients.
Face and Expression
A neutral expression with closed mouth is required. Both eyes must be open and looking directly at the camera. The face must be centred in the frame with the head height between 25-35 mm from chin to crown. Both ears should be visible.
Glasses
Glasses are not allowed in South Korean passport photos. This is a relatively recent change — previously thin-framed glasses were permitted. Now all eyewear must be removed, including clear-lens fashion glasses.
Colored Contacts
Colored or circle contact lenses are not allowed. South Korea specifically checks for this, as decorative lenses are popular. Only clear prescription contacts are permitted. Your eye color in the photo must match your natural eye color.
Head Coverings
Head coverings are not allowed unless worn for religious reasons. Religious head coverings must not obscure the face, and the full facial outline from forehead to chin must remain visible.
Photo Recency
Photos must have been taken within the last 6 months and must accurately represent your current appearance. Photos with visible digital editing or retouching will be rejected.
How South Korea Compares to Japan
| Requirement | South Korea | Japan |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 35 x 45 mm (rectangular) | 45 x 45 mm (square) |
| Pixels | 413 x 531 | 531 x 531 |
| Background | White only | White or light |
| Glasses | Not allowed | Not allowed |
| Colored Contacts | Not allowed | Not allowed |
| Head Height | 25-35 mm | 34 mm ± 2 mm |
Common Mistakes
- Wearing colored contacts: Circle lenses and colored contacts are specifically banned. Remove them before taking your photo.
- Off-white background: South Korea requires pure white, not light grey or cream. This is stricter than many other countries.
- Retouched photos: Digital editing, skin smoothing, or blemish removal will cause rejection. Submit an unedited photo.
- Wearing glasses: All eyewear must be removed. No exceptions for thin frames.
- Hair covering ears: Both ears should be visible in the photo.
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