Yongsan-gu, Seoul (District Mayor Park Heeyoung), is installing solar markers (solar-powered road markers) in dark alleys to reduce crime blind spots and ensure the safety of pedestrians at night.
Solar markers are devices installed on the road surface that charge using solar power during the day and automatically turn on LED lights at night, helping to secure visibility for pedestrians. They provide excellent visibility even at night or during rainy weather when it is difficult to see, thereby enhancing the safety of both pedestrians and drivers.
Prior to launching this project, Yongsan-gu conducted a resident participation demand survey in April. A total of 15 locations, including Hannam-dong, Namyeong-dong, and Huam-dong, applied for the project. Yongsan-gu, together with Yongsan Police Station and the Women-Friendly City Resident Participation Group, formed a joint public-private-police inspection team. By April 24, they will complete on-site inspections and select the final 5 to 6 locations for installation. Construction will begin in June and is scheduled to be completed by July.
In addition, Yongsan-gu is also implementing the "Safe Return Home Scout" initiative. This program targets residents vulnerable to walking at night, such as women, teenagers, and the elderly, and assigns scout teams of two members to assist them in returning home during late-night hours. Earlier this year, the district selected 11 scouts and deployed them to residential areas with high housing density, such as Yongmun-dong, Cheongpa-dong, and Bogwang-dong.
Last year, the district provided 1,014 Safe Return Home Scout services and conducted 2,016 patrols in vulnerable areas, contributing to resident safety. The program has received strong positive feedback from academy students and women returning home at night. Applications for the Safe Return Home Scout service can be made through the Seoul "Ansim-i" app or the 120 Dasan Call Center. Residents can also request assistance directly from scout members on site.
Park Heeyoung, District Mayor of Yongsan-gu, stated, "Solar markers and the Safe Return Home Scout are safety policies of Yongsan-gu aimed at preventing nighttime crime," adding, "We will continue to do our best to create an environment where residents can walk safely at night with peace of mind."
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.
