In a high-tech twist on public safety, Seoul police are experimenting with life-size holographic officers in an effort to discourage crime and reassure citizens in the capital city. The project reflects South Korea’s growing integration of AI and holographic technology into everyday life.
Every evening between 7 pm and 10 pm, a 3D holographic policeman over 170 cm tall appears in Judong No. 3 Park, Jung-gu, Seoul. Dressed in uniform, the hologram reminds passersby that “in emergencies, the police will respond immediately,” and warns that “there are surveillance cameras everywhere.”
Created by Hologrammica, a company specializing in holographic content, the projection was installed in October last year on a trial basis. Since then, early data suggests that the holographic officer has made a tangible difference in reducing crime.
According to the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency, crimes within the park’s radius have dropped by around 22% compared to the same period before the hologram was introduced. Police officials describe the installation as more than a gimmick.
Jungbu Police Station Chief Ahn Dong-hyun stated: “The hologram sign is becoming established as a smart security device that increases citizens’ perceived safety and has a psychological preventative effect against disorderly behavior. We will continue to expand crime prevention activities that incorporate AI technology to create a park environment where citizens can feel safe.”
Authorities acknowledge that the hologram cannot physically intervene, but argue that the psychological presence of an officer alone has proven effective. As one police source put it: “Although it was clear upon closer inspection that the person wasn’t a real person, the mere perception of police presence had a significant deterrent effect.”
While officials see the initiative as a success, public response has been more skeptical. Online commenters mocked the project, comparing the holographic figure to a “modern-day scarecrow.” Some even joked that fewer crimes happened simply because residents avoided the park after spotting the ghostly projection.
One user bluntly wrote: “What the hell, there’s a police ghost patrolling around here, what the hell are people thinking?”