Photo Caricature Souvenirs in Seoul | What to Bring

A Seoul souvenir can include someone who could not join your trip: a friend, a parent or the pet waiting at home. A photo-based caricature starts with a good reference and a conversation with the artist. This checklist helps you prepare the pictures and questions before a visit to Beautiful Caricature in Insadong or Bukchon.

Prepare your photo references

  1. Choose a clear face and expression

    Pick a photograph where the eyes and face are easy to see. For a pet, look for a view that shows the ears, coat markings and expression you want to remember.

  2. Keep a few useful views on your phone

    A favourite main picture and a couple of additional views can help explain the features. Keep the original photographs handy so the artist can see the details clearly.

  3. Decide who belongs in the drawing

    Write down the number of people and pets. Think about whether you want everyone together on one sheet or separate portraits to take home. Ask which compositions are available.

  4. Save an example of the style you like

    Browse the original galleries and choose an example with the expression, colour or mood you enjoy. Use it to explain your preference when discussing the portrait.

People, dogs and cats: original portrait examples

The portraits below come from the existing Insadong and Bukchon galleries. They show different ways a face or an animal’s character can become a drawing. These are examples to discuss with the artist; agree on the composition and available drawing options for your own order.

An original caricature of two friends from the Insadong gallery.
An original caricature of two friends from the Insadong gallery.

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A dog caricature with a hat from the Insadong gallery.
A dog caricature with a hat from the Insadong gallery.

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A cat caricature from the Bukchon pet portrait gallery.
A cat caricature from the Bukchon pet portrait gallery.

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Choose a studio and open its own map

Insadong · Ssamziegil

2F Ssamziegil, 44 Insadong-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul

The map points to the studio listing. Look for the second-floor location at Ssamziegil.

Open location map

Browse the original portrait gallery

Bukchon · pet portrait gallery

1F, 79 Yulgok-ro 3-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul

The map marks the building. The studio is on the first floor; check the entrance and studio name when you arrive.

Open location map

Browse the original portrait gallery

Questions to settle before ordering

  • Is this photograph suitable for the portrait I have in mind?
  • What is the total price for my chosen number of people and pets, including any photo-order charge?
  • What drawing time and collection arrangements are available for my travel dates?
  • Can the artist offer the composition and style I would like?

If this is a gift or a stop near the end of your Seoul trip, discuss collection before placing the order. Confirm current opening hours, photo-portrait options and the full quote for the branch you plan to visit.

A few practical answers

Can a portrait include someone who is not travelling with me?

The Insadong gallery introduces portraits made using photographs. Show the artist your chosen references and discuss the picture before ordering.

What if my pet is back home?

The Bukchon gallery includes pet portraits and photo references. Prepare a clear picture and confirm the current photo-portrait options with the studio.

Do I need to choose a price or a drawing time online?

Ask the studio for the current quote and collection plan for your specific picture. The number of subjects and requested composition are useful details to include.

Official website & studio enquiries · More studio guides

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