UPDATE: Hologram technology is making waves in Seoul, South Korea, as experimental holographic police officers have led to a staggering 22% drop in crime in the bustling nightlife district of Jeo-dong Park. This innovative approach, launched in October 2024, is changing the landscape of public safety in real-time.
Police in Seoul have deployed a digital police presence that activates every two minutes between 7:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m.. The hologram, resembling an officer in full uniform, issues warnings to pedestrians about constant CCTV surveillance and the potential for police intervention. Since its implementation, the hologram has notably reduced impulsive crimes, particularly those driven by intoxicated patrons from nearby bars.
According to a statement from the police reported by the South China Morning Post, “the mere perception of police presence has had a significant deterrent effect.” This psychological impact is crucial, especially in a district known for its nightlife and high levels of disorderly conduct.
Crime statistics gathered from October 2024 to May 2025 reveal that the holographic officer has made a measurable impact when compared to data from the previous year. While it remains uncertain whether the drop in crime is due to the novelty of the technology or its perceived realism, officials are already considering expanding the project into other parts of the city.
The system, developed by South Korean tech company Hologrammica, uses a projector mounted on a pole to create a life-sized image of a police officer on a 5-foot-7-inch transparent acrylic silhouette. This cutting-edge technology is particularly effective in capturing the attention of unsuspecting passersby, especially those who may have had a few drinks.
As South Korea continues to innovate in public safety and technology—evidenced by advancements such as hydrogen-powered stealth tanks—the success of the holographic police initiative could pave the way for a new era in law enforcement. The potential for this technology to enhance public safety in urban environments is now being closely monitored.
Stay tuned for further updates on this compelling development in crime prevention, as officials assess the possibility of implementing holographic officers across Seoul. The success seen in Jeo-dong Park could soon transform how police engage with communities around the world.
