Seoul has become the first city in South Korea to deploy life-sized holographic police officers in public spaces as part of a high-tech crime prevention initiative. The project, led by the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency, aims to boost public safety while showcasing the city’s use of advanced digital technologies.
The holographic officers, standing about 170 centimeters tall, are displayed in uniform at busy spots such as Jodong No. 3 Park in central Seoul. They appear between 7 PM and 10 PM, addressing visitors with pre-recorded messages. These messages remind citizens that the area is under surveillance and that immediate action will be taken in case of theft or misconduct.
Developed by UK-based firm Hologramica, the system was first tested in a pilot project launched in October 2024. While the holograms cannot physically intervene, their presence has had a measurable effect. A recent police report revealed a 22% decrease in incidents since their installation.
Chief Ahn Dong-Hyun of Jungbu Police Station described the holographic officers as a “smart security device” that helps deter unlawful behavior while reassuring the community. The initiative highlights Seoul’s strategy of combining AI, surveillance, and holographic technology to make urban spaces safer.
Authorities are already considering expansion to other districts, with plans to integrate AI-driven monitoring tools that could complement traditional policing methods.
Public reactions, however, remain mixed. While many residents feel safer, others question the long-term effectiveness of holograms. Yet, officials see the program as a step forward in AI-powered policing and crime prevention.
