Lotte World School Uniform Rental Guide: Ehwa vs. Gamsung & Hidden Costs

Lotte World School Uniform Rental: The Local’s Strategy to Skip Lines & Avoid Hidden “Cash Traps”

Listen, if you go to Lotte World in your regular street clothes—jeans and a t-shirt—you are going to feel what we call “FOMO” (Fear Of Missing Out) the second you walk through the gates.

In Korea, wearing a school uniform (Gyobok) to Lotte World isn’t just for kids. It is a massive cultural ritual for couples, friends, and yes, even people in their 30s. It’s about reliving a nostalgic, idealized high school life—think True Beauty or Produce 101.

But here is the “Local Truth” that travel wikis won’t tell you:

If you just show up at Jamsil Station on a Saturday morning without a reservation, you will wait 2 hours in line just to get fitted. By the time you get your uniform, you’ll be sweaty, tired, and Lotte World will be packed.

I’m going to show you exactly which shop fits your vibe (Pink Studio vs. British Prep), how to dodge the crowds, and the one “Cash Trap” that leaves foreigners stranded at the counter.

The Cheat Sheet: At A Glance

If you are in a rush, here is the breakdown. Pro Tip: Book these online (Klook/Trazy) at least 3 days in advance.

⚠️ The Golden Rule: No matter which shop you choose, BRING CASH. You will need 5,000 KRW – 10,000 KRW per person for the security deposit. They often do not accept credit cards for the deposit, and you need one physical ID (Passport) per group.

Part 1: Ehwa School Uniform (The K-Pop Fan Favorite)

If you have seen a viral TikTok of a pink classroom with desks and cute props, this is the place. Ehwa School Uniform is the undisputed heavyweight champion of rentals.

• The Vibe: Bright, pastel, energetic. They have a massive selection of the “Produce 101” style skirts (checkered pinks, blues) and skinny ties.

• The Secret Weapon: They have a fully built-in photo studio inside the rental shop. Even if it rains and you can’t go to Lotte World’s Magic Island, you can get amazing photos here.

📍 How to Get There (The Local Way):

Don’t trust the generic map dots. Jamsil is a maze.

1. Go to Jamsil Station (Line 2/8).

2. Find Exit 4. Walk straight past the Lotte Department Store.

3. Look for the building with the giant Starbucks and “Galleria Palace” sign.

4. Go to the Basement (B1) using the escalator. Go straight down the hallway past the restaurants until you see the crowd of people.

Local Warning: The changing room line here is savage.

• 09:00 AM: You are safe.

• 10:30 AM: You are in the danger zone (1 hour wait).

• 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM: The “Death Zone” (Wait times can hit 2+ hours).

Copy for Naver Map:서울 송파구 올림픽로 212 갤러리아팰리스 지하1층 36-27호

Part 2: Gamsung School Uniform (The “Rich Kid” Aesthetic)

“Gamsung” (감성) means “Vibe” or “Sentimental” in Korean. This shop targets a slightly more mature crowd who wants to look expensive.

• The Vibe: Think beige blazers, burgundy vests, and sophisticated patterns. If Ehwa is K-Pop Idol, Gamsung is K-Drama Chaebol (Rich Heir).

• The Advantage: The clothes often feel slightly higher quality (thicker fabric), and because it’s slightly less viral than Ehwa, the lines move a bit faster.

• Design: Their blazers fit very well—tailored and slim.

📍 How to Get There:

1. Jamsil Station Exit 3.

2. Walk straight towards the SK Hub building.

3. It’s relatively easier to find than Ehwa, but double-check the specific branch as they have a few pop-ups. Stick to the Jamsil Main Branch.

Copy for Naver Map: 서울 송파구 올림픽로 35길 124

Part 3: The “Hidden Costs” & Logistics (Read Carefully!)

This is where 90% of tourists get stressed out. The price you see online ($15-$18) is the Base Set.

1. What is included in the Base Set?

• Shirt (Long or Short sleeve)

• Skirt (Girls) / Trousers (Boys)

• Vest (Knitted)

• Tie or Ribbon

2. What do you pay extra for? (The Upsells)

• The Jacket (Mai/Blazer): This is NOT included in the base price. It usually costs an extra 5,000 KRW ($4).

  • Local Insight: If you are visiting in Summer (June-August), skip the jacket. You will melt. In Spring/Autumn, the jacket completes the look.

• Safety Shorts / Camisole: They sell these, but they are overpriced. Bring your own black safety shorts and a white tank top. The white uniform shirts can be slightly see-through.

• Lockers: You need to store your street clothes. There are coin lockers at the shop (~1,000 KRW) or inside Lotte World.

3. The “2-Fitting” Rule

You cannot treat this like a Zara dressing room.

Most shops strictly limit you to 2 fittings. If you try on a Pink set, then a Blue set, you must choose one of those. If you want to try a 3rd set, you pay a penalty fee.

• Strategy: Look at their Instagram tags beforehand and decide on a color theme (e.g., “Today we are doing Gryffindor Red”) before you enter the changing room.

Part 4: Survival Tips for the “Uniform Date”

1. The “Safety Pin” Hack

Korean school skirts are adjustable (they have a sliding rail on the waist), but the shirts can button awkwardly if you have a larger bust.

• Action: Bring 2-3 safety pins in your bag. It saves the day for gaping buttonholes.

2. Sizing Realities (Don’t Panic)

Korean sizing runs small.

• If you are a US Medium, you might be a Korean XL or 2XL.

• Do not be offended. It’s just the number on the tag.

• Most shops (Ehwa/Gamsung) stock up to 3XL or 4XL, but the selection gets smaller as the size goes up.

3. Return Time Strategy

Most shops close at 10:00 PM, but they require you to return the uniform by 9:30 PM.

• The Trap: Everyone leaves Lotte World after the night parade (8:30 PM). The line to return the uniform can also take 30 minutes.

• Pro Tip: Leave Lotte World at 9:00 PM sharp to beat the “Return Rush.”

4. Can I  this outside?

Yes! You can rent for 1 Day, 2 Days, or even 3 Days.

• Local Trend: Some people rent the uniform, go to Lotte World, and then go to the Seokchon Lake area for dinner and drinks while still wearing it. It’s totally normal.

Conclusion: Is it worth the hassle?

Absolutely. When you walk into Lotte World’s “Magic Island” castle courtyard, and you see 90% of the people wearing uniforms, you realize it’s part of the immersive experience. It makes the photos 10x better and it’s a fun way to bond with your friends or partner.

Your Next Step:

1. Decide your vibe: Pink/Idol (Ehwa) or Classy/Preppy (Gamsung).

2. Book your slot on Klook/Trazy for 9:00 AM (trust me on the timing).

3. Go to the ATM and withdraw 30,000 KRW (Deposit + Locker + Snacks).

Enjoy your high school rewind! Hwaiting! (Fighting!)

KoreaPlus-Lifes

Hi, I’m [jeybee]. As a long-time resident of Seoul, I’m passionate about uncovering the authentic, everyday magic of Korea. This blog is my way of sharing my favorite spots, tips, and cultural insights with you, beyond the usual tourist traps.