TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Korean-style photo booths have surged in popularity with their increasing presence in Taiwan.
Amid the post-pandemic recovery, owners of photobooth businesses saw an opportunity to offer people a means of capturing memories when their social lives were temporarily on hold.
These trendy photo booths, which take photos known as "life's four cuts," became a way for young adults and teenagers to immortalize their friendships and youth.
At Taipei City's tourist hotspot, Ximending district, several keen business owners have established many more Korean-style photo booths, marking a remarkable increase from one to twelve such stores in just four months since Taiwan's border reopened.
In addition to being a beloved pastime, these photobooth stores have proven to be lucrative businesses.
With a rough estimate suggesting that they can earn NT＄20,000 per photobooth per day, a store with three booths could rake in NT＄1.8 million each month.
Even after accounting for 20% of the rent and 10% of personnel costs, the business can still expect NT＄1.26 million in monthly profits.
However, as more colorful photo booths continue to pop up in Taiwan, concerns have been raised that a lack of precise business models may soon cause them to lose momentum, much like the once-popular claw machines.
Owners of these photo-taking stores must find innovative ways to ensure their longevity and secure a foothold in the industry for years.
