Seoul’s New “Ghost Cop” Hologram Cuts Park Crime by 22%

In a bid to revamp public safety, Seoul has deployed a striking new tool: a life-size hologram of a uniformed police officer standing watch in Jodong No. 3 Park.

Operating nightly from 7 to 10 pm, the digital figure flashes into view every two minutes, delivering a prerecorded message reminding visitors that they are under surveillance and real police will respond to emergencies.

Measurable Crime Reduction

The impact has been remarkable. Police compared crime statistics between October 2023 and May 2024 (before the hologram) and October 2024 and May 2025 (after implementation), and found a 22 % decline in reported incidents during active hours.

Authorities attribute this dip to the psychological effect of perceived authority, demonstrating how even virtual presence can influence behavior.

Behind the Projection

Developed by technology provider Hologrammica, the projection model was based on a real-life officer, complete with a standard dress uniform chosen for year-round appropriateness.

The hologram glows softly in the dark and adds a sense of vigilance—even when people know it’s not real. Police officials describe the effect as “a smart security device” that enhances deterrence and reassures park-goers.

Smart, Not Human—And That’s the Point

While undeniably eye-catching, the hologram cannot intervene physically—it can’t arrest someone or de-escalate a violent situation. Instead, its strength lies in the perception of authority.

Experts highlight this as a powerful psychological deterrent: when people believe they are being watched, they tend to think twice before committing misdeeds.

Expanding the Vision

Encouraged by the success in Jodong No. 3 Park, the Seoul Metropolitan Police are considering similar installations in other areas prone to disorderly or alcohol-related incidents.

This initiative falls under the larger “Safe Park” campaign, designed to amplify visibility without requiring permanent human deployment, and capitalize on cost-effective tech.

Context and Cautions

Seoul’s hologram initiative aligns with its broader strategy of integrating AI, surveillance, and smart-city tools into urban management—from virtual assistants in stations to facial recognition in schools. But while the project gained praise for innovation, critics caution against overreliance on illusion—the “digital scarecrow.” Without variation or human backup, offenders may grow desensitized to the hologram over time. Sustaining its deterrent power will require strategic updates and clear communication to the public.

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