The practice of photography in Korea was delayed until the late 19th century, because of the Joseon Dynasty's policy forbidding contact with foreigners.
Kim Yong-Won, who was the first professional photographer in Korea, opened a photo studio in 1883.
"[citation needed] The Japanese government restricted Korean photographers' activities during World War II.
Art photography was the dominant tendency among amateur photographers during this period.
In the 1960s after the Korean War, photojournalism and commercial photography began to emerge.