I visited iWan Idol Room, Singapore’s new K-pop-inspired photo studio, to live out my idol fantasy without the gruelling training contract.
If you’ve always wanted to be a K-pop idol (minus the scandals and controversies), iWan Idol Room can make your dreams come true… and you don’t have to leave Singapore! Located near Ubi MRT station, this new experiential photo studio features themed sets familiar to K-culture fans as well as outfits and a makeover service that’ll transform you from drab to fab. I popped by to experience it, and let’s just say, my inner K-pop idol was living his best life the whole hour. (If this isn’t your thing, you can consider checking out G-Dragon’s Übermensch exhibition in Singapore instead.)
iWan Idol Room in Singapore review: Details at a glance
Best for: K-pop obsessives and squad photo ops
Insider tip: Bring a friend to help snap your best angles – solo works, but two is always more fun.
How much: $49 per hour or from $68 for three hours (a fixed deposit of $29 is required for every booking)
Opening hours: Daily, 10.30am to 8pm (split into three, 3-hour sessions)
Address: iWan Idol Room, #05-02, Excalibur Centre, 71 Ubi Crescent, Singapore 408571
What is iWan Idol Room?
Think of it as a photo studio, but all zhushed up to scream iconic K-pop vibes. One moment you’re scribbling nonsense on the Knowing Brothers classroom blackboard, the next you’re pretending to sip soju at rapper Lee Youngji’s spot from No Excuses, before strutting your stuff down the Melon Music Awards red carpet. Every set is so on-point it practically begs you to live out your idol fantasy.
iWan Idol Room works like a selfie studio, which basically means you’ll be snapping your own photos. I recommended having a friend along so they can help take your photos – or even better, take turns posing and preening for each other. There’s a photographer for hire on-site ($150 to $200 per hour), but you’ll need to book them in advance.
There are various packages to sign up for, ranging from a no-frills hourly session ($49 per hour) to a full 3-hour package that includes two outfit changes and one make-up session ($238 for three hours, available only in the afternoon).
Here’s a breakdown of the full packages and add-ons available at this K-pop photo studio in Singapore:
- No-frills entry: $49 per hour
- No-frills full session (3 hours): $68
- Full session (3 hours with one outfit rental): $88
- Full session (3 hours with two outfit rentals): $118
- Full session (3 hours with two outfit rentals and a makeover): $238
- Companion entry (3 hours): $49
- K-Idol makeover: $150
- Photographer for hire: $150 to $200 per hour
How to get there?
The studio is located on the fifth floor of Excalibur Centre at Ubi Crescent, just a 10-minute walk from Ubi MRT station. Depending on which side of the building you enter from, there are a couple of lifts that will whisk you up to the studio. Oh, there’s a humble canteen downstairs, perfect for a pre-glam coffee or post-session debrief.
What’s the experience like?
The minute I entered, the themed sets hit me all at once. It gave me a solid sense of what to expect during the session. Makeovers are done in two sections: one near the entrance, and the other within an enclosed space across from the Melon Music Awards set.
Those planning to sign up for the makeover should arrive 1.5 hours before their booking to get all glammed up. I didn’t opt for this, so I painted my face before heading to the studio.
The “stage-ready” outfits are located behind the fansign event set. Note: the wardrobe is mostly women’s clothes (from small to large), so male guests should bring their own outfits.
Most sets come with props you can pose with. I suggest being aware of your best angles and picking up some K-pop choreography (they don’t have to be intricate) to take full advantage of being on set. When you’re done, you can turn your photos into classic K-pop merch like photo cards for an additional $5.90.
Is iWan Idol Room worth it?
Unless you’re a hardcore K-pop stan with three outfit changes and a mood board ready, you don’t need to book the full session. The no-frills option is perfectly fine for casual snaps or TikTok-worthy shots. My colleague and I wrapped up our mini idol fantasy in about an hour – no stylists, no outfit changes, just solid lighting and a dangerously high level of delulu.
That said, if you wanna experience the full works, save it for when you’re ready to bring your idol era to life. The packages make great birthday gifts or a fun girls’ day activity. Whether you’re here for social content or just a good time, iWan Idol Room is proof that you don’t need to zip out of Singapore to feel like a star.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is iWan Idol Room located?
iWan Idol Room is just a 10-minute walk from Ubi MRT station, so whether you’re in heels or sneakers, you can strut your way to K-pop stardom with ease.
How do I make a booking?
Booking is required online via the official platform, and a $29 deposit must be paid to secure your slot. The full payment balance is due upon arrival at the counter.
Are there any restrictions at iWan Idol Room?
No outside food or drinks are allowed in the set areas, and pets are strictly prohibited. You must get prior approval for any items that are messy or potentially damaging, such as glitter, liquids, or dry ice.
What happens if I arrive late or need to reschedule?
Your session starts exactly at the booked time, and late arrivals do not extend the session. If you need to reschedule, you must do so via the system more than 48 hours in advance; the deposit is non-refundable for cancellations or no-shows.
What are the charges for overtime?
Overtime is subject to the studio's schedule and approval. Charges apply immediately: 10 to 30 minutes over costs $25, and 30 to 60 minutes over costs $49.
