North Korean ID Photo

A Recognisable Image for North Korea’s Citizen Identity Record

North Korea’s citizen identity card is a domestic identification record, distinct from a passport used for international travel. Research by 38 North documents the collection of facial photographs for national identity cards and the development of biometric identification systems. That context explains why a portrait needs to represent the holder clearly, but it is not a public application checklist.

For a card issue, renewal or correction, confirm the procedure with the responsible registration office before preparing pictures. Ask how the photograph is collected and whether the request concerns an existing record or a new document. Do not use South Korean resident-registration instructions, which belong to a different country and administrative system.

Our photo requirements, framing, background, facial expression and photo quality pages explain the visual considerations for an identification portrait. Preserve an accurate likeness, keep the face visible and avoid appearance-changing edits. If a picture is supplied, confirm its final dimensions and format with the office rather than inferring them from the proportions of an example card.

The North Korea page brings together related North Korean document information. Keep the requested identity documents or existing registration evidence available so that the portrait can be associated with the correct personal particulars. A domestic identity card and a travel document serve different purposes; establish which one the transaction actually requires before preparing an application file or a set of prints.