Biometrics recognition works by granting or denying access to areas by comparing physical characteristics and images already stored in a computer or memory device with that of the person wanting to enter a facility. (image: Kobizmedia/ Korea Bizwire)
SEOUL, April 21 (Korea Bizwire) – The South Korean government is reviewing an option to beef up security at public office buildings by adopting a biometrics recognition system, the interior minister said Thursday.
The policymaker’s announcement comes as Seoul took fire for lax security after a man broke into a government building earlier this month.
The 26-year-old, identified only by his surname Song, was formally arrested over unauthorized entry into the government complex in central Seoul and manipulating the result of the civil service examination he took.
Song illegally entered the building a total of five times after he stole an identification card of a public official working in the building in February, according to the National Police Agency (NPA).
“(After the incident), we are reviewing whether to adopt a biometric system using fingerprints, faces or irises to protect government office buildings,” Interior Minister Hong Yun-sik told reporters.
Biometrics recognition works by granting or denying access to areas by comparing physical characteristics and images already stored in a computer or memory device with that of the person wanting to enter a facility.
Still, the minister said it is important to first solve any errors that may occur when using a biometrics recognition system.
“If errors continue to occur, we cannot use it,” Hong said, underlining the significance of a stable system.
Hong also emphasized the importance of security consciousness, saying regardless of how good the system is, a lack of awareness by users can always lead to problems.
(Yonhap)
