UPDATE: Hologram police are making a significant impact on crime rates in Seoul, South Korea, with a remarkable 22% reduction in criminal activity reported. This cutting-edge initiative, launched in October 2024, utilizes a holographic police officer in the busy Jeo-dong Park area, known for its nightlife and associated disturbances.
The holographic officer, which appears every two minutes between 7:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m., issues warnings about ongoing CCTV surveillance and the presence of real police on standby. This innovative approach targets impulsive crimes, particularly those fueled by alcohol consumption from nearby bars. Since its implementation, police have observed a substantial decline in such offenses, confirming the hologram’s effectiveness.
Authorities attribute this success to the psychological deterrent the holographic officer creates. A statement from police highlighted, “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 hologram’s ability to prompt self-regulation among potential offenders appears to be a game-changer.
The crime statistics were compiled from October 2024 to May 2025, revealing a stark contrast when compared to the previous year. Officials are now considering expanding this technology beyond Jeo-dong Park, hoping to replicate its success in other high-crime areas of the city.
Developed by South Korean tech company Hologrammica, the system employs a projector mounted on a pole to project the image of a police officer onto a 5-foot-7-inch transparent acrylic silhouette. This setup creates an illusion that is startling enough to catch the attention of unsuspecting pedestrians, particularly those who may have indulged in a few drinks.
As authorities continue to embrace innovative solutions to combat crime, the success of the hologram initiative serves as a promising example of technology’s potential in public safety. With further data expected to emerge, the impact of this futuristic approach is being closely monitored.
What happens next? Observers will be watching for potential expansions of this program and other technology-driven crime prevention strategies being explored by law enforcement across the globe. As cities look for effective methods to improve safety, the holographic officer may well become a cornerstone of modern policing.
