South Korean ID Photo

Choosing a Recognisable Image for Korea’s Resident Registration Card

The Korean resident registration card, or jumin deungnokjeung, is a domestic identity document. Its portrait accompanies the registered personal details and should not be confused with the foreign resident’s immigration card. Before preparing an ID photograph, establish whether you need a first resident registration card or a replacement of an existing one.

The Ministry of the Interior and Safety specifies a recent 35 × 45 mm colour photograph showing the upper body straight ahead without a hat. Its guidance recommends a white background but also permits a light, single-colour background. It notes that a photograph meeting passport specifications can be used for both applications, provided the relevant recency and identification conditions are met.

The photograph needs to be printed and clear enough for identification. Review the photo requirements below, including the explanations of framing, background, facial expression and photo quality. Avoid a copied, sticker-style or heavily altered image that makes the person difficult to recognise. A natural likeness matters more than making the photograph resemble a studio publicity portrait.

Use the South Korea page to compare related Korean documents, and keep the requested identity documents ready when arranging the registration service. Confirm the submission and collection arrangements for your first issue or replacement. If your question concerns travel or a consular service, the embassy and consulate directory can help locate the appropriate contact; the resident registration card’s domestic role should not be assumed to make it a passport for an overseas journey.