Why There's No Pickpocketing in Korea: The Journey to Becoming a Safe Nation

Today, many travelers from around the world refer to South Korea as a "safe country"—and rightly so. But minor crimes like pickpocketing were not always absent from Korean society. Korea's current reputation is the result of decades of systemic change, legal reform, and rising civic awareness.

Table of Contents

• The Journey to a Safe Korea
  • 1. Era of Survival Crime (~1970s)
  • 2. State-Controlled Policing (1970s–1980s)
  • 3. Infrastructure & Crime Prevention (1990s–2000s)
  • 4. Modern Policing & Cultural Factors (2010s~)
• Conclusion
  • 1. A Truly Safe Country?
  • 2. Not Crime-Free, But Informed

The Journey to a Safe Korea

In the 1990s, Korean dramas and movies frequently depicted pickpocketing, and audiences didn’t question it. Such crimes were common. But today's generation often wonders, "Did that really happen in Korea?" Let's explore how the nation managed to eliminate these petty crimes in a short time span.

1. Era of Survival Crime (~1970s)

After decades under Japanese rule and the devastation of the Korean War in 1950, Korea was among the poorest nations in the world. Only by the 1970s did the economy begin to improve. Despite national campaigns like the Saemaul Movement, not everyone had access to jobs or income. Many people turned to petty crimes simply to survive.

2. State-Controlled Policing (1970s–1980s)

During the 1980s, the government expanded the police force and enforced strict control under military regimes. Citizens also formed local patrol groups and neighborhood watch committees, fostering a sense of collective responsibility. With economic growth taking root, survival-driven crimes began to decline. Still, this period saw aggressive crackdowns and mass arrests aimed at restoring public order.

3. Infrastructure & Crime Prevention (1990s–2000s)

With events like the 1986 Asian Games and 1988 Olympics, national pride surged. Korea transformed its global image and invested heavily in public safety. CCTV surveillance expanded, criminal law penalties were strengthened, and technological tools like DNA profiling and the 112 emergency response system were introduced. As a result, petty crimes like pickpocketing became rare, both in the media and in real life.

4. Modern Policing & Cultural Factors (2010s~)

Korea began to gain the reputation of a country where even women feel safe walking alone at night. Items lost on the street often make their way back to the owners. Social experiments by foreign YouTubers testing Korean civility went viral, further promoting Korea's clean and law-abiding image.

Conclusion

1. A Truly Safe Country?

Whether it’s solo travelers or parents sending their children to study abroad, Korea is viewed as a secure destination. While walking around without worrying about your phone or wallet might be unthinkable in many countries, it's second nature in Korea.

2. Not Crime-Free, But Informed

Does that mean Korea has 0% crime? Of course not. In fact, about 4.9% of Korea’s population are foreigners (as of last year), and some minor crimes still exist. But knowing which areas require more caution is all you really need. With basic awareness, Korea remains one of the easiest and most comfortable countries to navigate safely.