Seoul’s police force has introduced life-sized holographic police officers in a public park in an effort to reduce crime and enhance the public’s sense of security.

According to foreign media, a uniformed police figure measuring more than 170 centimetres appears daily between 7 pm and 10 pm in Jodong No. 3 Park, a busy area in the South Korean capital. The virtual officer reminds residents that the police will respond promptly in emergencies and that the area is monitored by surveillance cameras.

However, this figure is not a real officer. It is a three-dimensional hologram designed to offer psychological reassurance and deter disorderly conduct. Developed by Hologramica, a technology firm specialising in holographic content, the prototype was first installed on a trial basis in October last year.

Seoul is trying out a new way to keep its parks safe: life-size holographic police officers. Every evening in Judong No. 3 Park, a 3D policeman over 170 cm tall appears to remind visitors that police respond quickly in emergencies and that surveillance cameras are everywhere.… pic.twitter.com/lCrucayqTX
— Yup That Exists (@yupthtexists) August 16, 2025

Recent data indicate that the presence of the holographic officer has contributed significantly to a decrease in crime within the park.

Chief Ahn Dong-hyun of the Jungbu Police Station described the hologram as a “smart security device” that enhances the public’s sense of safety and acts as a psychological deterrent against disruptive behaviour.

He added that the police intend to expand the use of artificial intelligence technology to further enhance crime prevention, creating an environment in which citizens feel secure.

The Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency reported that a comparison of crime statistics before and after the installation revealed a reduction of nearly 22 per cent in reported incidents within the park’s vicinity—an outcome deemed significant.

While officials emphasised that the technology cannot apprehend offenders directly, they noted that it has proven effective in crime prevention and fostering a perception of safety. The deployment area may be expanded depending on future conditions.

Police sources acknowledged that, although the hologram’s artificial nature becomes apparent upon closer inspection, its mere presence has delivered a notable deterrent effect.

Despite the initiative’s success from the police perspective, public reception of the hologram has remained largely indifferent.