KORAIL headquarters (Image courtesy of Yonhap)
DAEJEON, Nov. 1 (Korea Bizwire) – The Korea Railroad Corporation (KORAIL) has announced a new initiative aimed at enhancing security and preventing illegal hidden camera crimes at train stations in the Seoul metropolitan area. Beginning in November, KORAIL will implement a comprehensive ‘continuous illegal filming detection system’ that will operate 24/7 in the restrooms of four specific stations.
This detection system is equipped with thermal imaging sensors installed within each restroom stall. These sensors are capable of detecting the temperature emitted by unauthorized cameras and promptly alerting station authorities.
The system will be deployed at four stations: Seoul Forest, Apgujeong Rodeo, Suseo Station (Suin-Bundang Line), and Pangyo Station (Gyeonggang Line). In total, 74 detection systems have been installed in women’s restrooms. The selection of these stations was made in collaboration with the Korean Women’s Organization Council, focusing on stations with a high volume of female passengers. KORAIL plans to evaluate the system’s effectiveness and potentially expand its deployment to other stations in the future.
In cases where an illegal camera is discovered, station personnel will promptly inform the police, leading to potential legal action against the offender. The consequences for such crimes can include imprisonment for up to seven years or fines of up to 50 million won under the Special Act on the Punishment of Sexual Violence Crimes.
Furthermore, KORAIL has been actively combating illegal camera use at more than 400 train stations nationwide using portable detection devices carried by employees. By the first half of this year, the corporation intends to upgrade to the latest detectors employing infrared or radio wave technology, thereby reinforcing daily and weekly inspections.
J. S. Shin (js_shin@koreabizwire.com)
