The Magic of Four Cuts: Exploring the Korean Self-Photo Studios Sweeping Toronto

Bringing the cute props and authentic vibes straight from the streets of Korea, here are the best local self-photo studios where you can capture unforgettable memories with your friends.

Walking down Yonge Street or Bloor Street in Toronto, you might feel like you've been teleported to the vibrant alleys of Hongdae or Seongsu-dong in Seoul. Bright pink neon signs, the cheerful sound of laughter spilling out the doors, and walls completely covered with glossy four-cut photos—this is all because the Korean "self-photo studio" craze has completely taken over Toronto. As a Korean-Canadian, it is truly thrilling to see this cultural trend from Seoul seamlessly blending into the local Toronto scene.

As soon as you step inside, upbeat K-pop beats catch your ear. On one side, you can hear the clicking of curling irons at the vanity, while baskets overflowing with giant fruit hats, silly sunglasses, and fluffy animal headbands catch your eye. Frantically changing poses every 10 seconds to the sound of the shutter and laughing uncontrollably will make the stress of daily life melt away before you know it.

Here are three must-visit local self-photo studios in Toronto.

Life Four Cuts (인생네컷)

This is the OG of Korean self-photo studios! With multiple locations including Spadina Avenue downtown and Pacific Mall in Markham, this place offers the most classic and cute aesthetic frames. I have a fond memory of taking my local friends here for the first time, bursting into laughter as they bickered over who gets to wear the giant, fluffy strawberry hat.

• Address: 397 Spadina Ave, Toronto (and various other locations)
• Instagram: @life4cuts.toronto
• Website: life4cutscanada.ca

Photoism (포토이즘)

If you want a cleaner, more sleek aesthetic or if you're a K-pop fan, this is a must-visit. Photoism is famous for its limited-edition "Artist Frame" collaborations, allowing you to pose as if you're taking pictures right next to famous K-pop idol group members. I still can't forget the look on my friend's face as they shyly made a finger heart next to the frame of their favorite idol!

• Address: 584 Yonge St & 607 Bloor St W, Toronto
• Instagram: @photoism.to
• Website: photoism-toronto.com

Monography (모노그래피)

If you're looking for a more premium, hip, photoshoot-like vibe, I highly recommend Monography. The North York location, in particular, features a Y2K-inspired "overhead" (high-angle) booth that has recently gone completely viral on TikTok and Instagram! Looking up at the camera mounted on the ceiling gives you a unique angle and highly trendy results.

• Address: 4891A Yonge St, North York / 621A Bloor St W, Toronto
• Phone: (905) 234-0888
• Instagram: @monography
• Website: monography.ca

Tips for Your Visit

Time flies much faster inside the booth than you think! You only have about 10 seconds per cut to strike a pose before the timer runs out, so be sure to search #네컷포즈 (four-cut pose) or #4cut on Instagram beforehand to coordinate poses with your friends. Also, don't forget to scan the QR code located in the corner of your printed photo strip. You can download not only the high-resolution original photos but also a behind-the-scenes timelapse video of your chaotic photo session—perfect for an Instagram Reel—completely free of charge.

It's the most guaranteed, vibrant joy you can buy for just $10. Why not dive into the magic of these four cuts with your friends or loved ones this weekend?