Sihyunhada: Why This Korean Photo Studio Is a Must-Visit

In need of a new headshot to represent myself when sending out articles for other publications, I dove down a rabbit hole of trendy portrait options and iconic Korean headshot studios and came upon the one experience making waves for anyone looking to capture their best self—Sihyunhada Photo Studio (시현하다).

If you’ve been following Korean beauty and professional portrait trends, you’ve likely heard of Sihyunhada. More than just a photography studio, Sihyunhada personalizes every shoot through 1:1 consultations, helping clients craft the perfect headshot or portrait that encapsulates their personality. Korean headshots and ID photos are always rather stunning, definitely better than any ID photo I’ve ever had taken, so I was looking forward to the experience.

I visited Sihyunhada with my daughter as well so we both got fantastic headshots. Definitely something to consider for both you and your kids if you want some great photos to send to family:

• Basic Info
• What To Know About Sihyunhada
• My Headshot Experience at Sihyunhada Seongsu
  • Step 1: The Consultation
  • Step 2: Setting Up the Shoot
  • Step 3: The Shoot
  • Step 4: Retouching & Review
  • Step 5: The Final Package
• Why You Should Book a Session
• What Else To Do in Seongsu

(This post contains affiliate links, which means I receive a certain percentage of a sale if you purchase after clicking at no cost to you. Thank you for your support.)

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Basic Info

Sihyunhada has four flagship store locations in Seoul and as you can see above, they each have their own unique style. I visited the Seongsu-dong branch, but you could visit them in Hongdae, Gangnam, or Bukchon.

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What To Know About Sihyunhada

Sihyunhada is redefining professional photography with its uniquely tailored approach. Instead of cookie-cutter headshots, they emphasize a consultation-based experience, where you work with the photographer to refine your look, choose the right tones, and develop a concept that brings out your individuality. Their innovative “adjective cards” system allows clients to select words that best describe their desired image—whether that’s “charismatic,” “warm,” or “sophisticated.”

Sihyunhada isn’t just for everyday visitors; it has become the go-to studio for Korean celebrities, influencers, and professionals who want the perfect polished image. Everyone from rapper Lee Young Ji to Red Velvet’s Yeri has stepped in front of their cameras.

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My Headshot Experience at Sihyunhada Seongsu

The moment I arrived at Sihyunhada’s Seongsu Flagship Store, I could see why this place was making waves. With its sleek red-and-wood interiors and museum-like photo displays, the space felt more like a gallery than a studio.

Step 1: The Consultation

Upon arrival, I was greeted by a staff member who guided me to a waiting area, where I was given a mirror to make final touch-ups. Then, I was handed the adjective cards—a unique Sihyunhada feature. I selected words that best described the image I wanted. While I was going for professional but fun, my daughter was going for cute and trendy.

The photographer, Saena, reviewed my choices and suggested a color scheme and pose style that aligned with my concept after asking me what my favorite color was.

Step 2: Setting Up the Shoot

Next, we discussed the background color and how different lighting setups would affect the final image. Darker lighting would create a more intense and serious vibe, while brighter lighting would give a fresh, vibrant look. Once the choices were made, Saena set up the backdrop and adjusted the lights accordingly.

Step 3: The Shoot

Moving into the actual studio, I was surprised by the level of coaching Saena provided. Every slight movement, whether it was the tilt of my chin, the arch of my shoulders, or the intensity of my gaze, was adjusted with precision… and it was done quickly too.

This wasn’t just taking a photo; it was an art form. She was so adept at expertly guiding me, I was done before I knew it and didn’t feel that awkward twinge that can sometimes occur when sitting still for so long with a smile that starts normal and ends up awkwardly plastered on the face.

Step 4: Retouching & Review

After the shoot, rather than the photographer photoshopping on their own, I was invited to collaborate in the retouching process. We worked together on quick fixes, such as adjusting the tone of the background color and minor touch-ups for makeup and skin tone. The photographer’s artistic eye made all the difference, ensuring that even the smallest changes enhanced the final image significantly.

Step 5: The Final Package

After about 15 minutes of retouching, I received my photo package in a stylish cassette-tape-like case, and files sent to my email as well. The entire process—from consultation to final prints—took only 30 minutes, making it a seamless and efficient experience. (Since there were two of us, my daughter also took 30 minutes so in total it was an hour for the two of us.)

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Why You Should Book a Session

• Personalized Experience: The consultation ensures your photos match your style and personality.
• Celebrity-Level Quality: Their experience working with high-profile clients means you’re in expert hands.
• Effortless Booking: Foreigners can book through Creatrip without language barriers.
• Timeless Keepsake: Whether for professional branding, social media, or a personal confidence boost, these headshots last a lifetime.

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What Else To Do in Seongsu

Seongsu-dong is a very popular district to visit for K-beauty pop-ups, quirky and fun cafes, and delicious restaurants. If you’re in the area, here are some other fantastic places to visit nearby!

WHIPPED: Creatrip also has a fun experience at the nearby WHIPPED House. Stop in to see their popular whipped beauty creations and even make your own cleanser if you sign up in advance.

Amore Seongsu (아모레성수): A three-floor beauty playground featuring brands like Sulwhasoo and Laneige. We always make sure to stop into Amore Seongsu when we’re in the area. At the very least to get the free samples at the end.

Monami Concept Store: A stationery haven where you can personalize your own pens and notebooks. I LOVE Monami pens. You won’t live in Korea long without seeing this pens on every desk and table. Get your own and get them personalized at the concept store in Seongsu.

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Sihyunhada takes professional headshots to a whole new level. Whether you need a professional profile shot, an artistic portrait, or just want to experience Korean-style photography, Sihyunhada is the place to go.

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