In a groundbreaking initiative, police in Seoul, South Korea, have deployed a holographic police officer in an effort to combat rising crime rates. Launched in October 2024, this innovative strategy has reportedly led to a remarkable 22% reduction in crime in the Jeo-dong Park area, known for its nightlife and associated criminal incidents.
The holographic officer operates nightly from 19:00 to 22:00, delivering warnings to pedestrians about ongoing CCTV surveillance and the potential for police intervention. This initiative targets areas with a high incidence of impulsive crimes, particularly those linked to alcohol consumption. The area has been a focal point for police due to its proximity to numerous bars, where disorderly conduct often escalates.
According to a statement from the police, the hologram has had a considerable psychological impact on the community. As noted by the South China Morning Post, police acknowledged, “Although it is clear upon closer inspection that the person isn’t real, the mere perception of police presence has had a significant deterrent effect.” The drop in crime rates from October 2024 to May 2025 compared to the previous year supports this assertion.
The technology behind this initiative was developed by Hologrammica, a South Korean tech company. The system utilizes a projector mounted on a pole to cast a lifelike image of a police officer onto a transparent acrylic silhouette, standing approximately 1.7 meters tall. This realistic display is designed to capture attention, particularly during late-night hours when individuals may be less discerning.
While the decline in criminal activity is notable, it remains unclear whether the effectiveness is attributed to the novelty of the holographic police officer or its perceived realism. Many patrons frequenting the area may not fully appreciate the hologram’s artificial nature, especially if they have consumed alcohol.
The success of this pilot program in Jeo-dong Park has prompted discussions about expanding the use of holographic officers to other high-crime areas within the city. Police officials are optimistic that this technology could serve as a valuable tool in enhancing public safety.
As South Korea continues to innovate with advanced technology—including developments such as a hydrogen-powered stealth tank—the integration of holograms into law enforcement reflects the nation’s commitment to leveraging cutting-edge solutions for real-world problems. This experiment not only highlights the potential of technology in crime prevention but also raises questions about the future of policing in urban environments.
