Seoul | South Korea is developing a first-of-its-kind mobile application that will allow stalking victims to track the real-time location of offenders on a digital map. The initiative, announced by the Ministry of Justice, follows amendments to the country’s electronic monitoring law and is aimed at strengthening victim safety and situational awareness.
Under the revised legal framework, victims will be able to view the live movement and direction of stalkers who are legally required to wear electronic tracking devices. Authorities say the tool is designed to provide immediate risk visibility in potentially dangerous situations.
More Than Alerts: Victims Get Real-Time Visibility
Currently, stalking victims receive only SMS alerts when an offender enters a restricted proximity. These alerts do not disclose exact distance, direction, or location—often leaving victims unsure how to respond.
The upcoming app addresses this gap by offering:
- A secure, real-time digital map
- Live stalker location, movement, and direction
- Enhanced ability to decide escape routes or seek help
The Justice Ministry confirmed that data already collected through wearable electronic tracking devices will now be integrated into the victim-facing application.
Integration With National Emergency Hotline
Authorities are also working to link the system with South Korea’s national emergency hotline. Once activated, emergency responders will be able to:
- Instantly view both victim and offender locations
- Dispatch police units without delay
Local media report that full technical integration is expected to be completed next year.
Stalking Linked to Wider Violence Against Women
Experts note that stalking in South Korea reflects a broader pattern of gender-based violence, including:
- Secret spy-camera crimes
- Online harassment
- Threats against women expressing feminist views
Between 2019 and 2023, several cases sparked nationwide outrage. Most notably, in 2022, a young woman was murdered by a former colleague who had stalked her for years. Despite repeated police complaints, the perpetrator was classified as “low risk” and faced no detention or restraining order—fueling demands for reform.
Anti-Stalking Laws Strengthened in 2021 and 2023
South Korea enacted its first dedicated anti-stalking law in 2021, prescribing:
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Up to 3 years in prison
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Fines up to 30 million won
Due to criticism over weak enforcement, amendments in 2023 lowered prosecution thresholds and enabled faster arrests. As a result:
- Reported stalking cases rose from 7,600 in 2022
- To over 13,000 in 2023, according to Justice Ministry data
Officials say the rise reflects increased reporting, not just higher incidence.
Government: Technology-Based Safety Now Essential
The Ministry of Justice stressed that as crimes grow more technology-driven, victim-protection tools must evolve. The real-time tracking app is expected to be especially critical for victims facing repeat threats or prior violence.
Officials add that continuous monitoring may also serve as a deterrent, signaling to offenders that their movements are under constant surveillance.
