South Korea to install hidden camera detectors in public restrooms

South Korea is set to enhance public restroom safety by requiring the installation of hidden camera detection systems. A legal revision passed by the National Assembly on July 23 mandates that local governments equip public restrooms with advanced safety features.

The amendment to the Public Toilets Act explicitly adds illegal camera detection systems to the list of required safety equipment. This measure also includes the installation of emergency bells. Municipal authorities will be responsible for ensuring these systems are properly operated and maintained. The current law already mandates safety facilities like emergency bells to prevent crimes and accidents, but the revision specifically targets the growing concern over covert filming.

This legislative action comes in response to a persistent issue of illegal filming in public facilities. Police statistics submitted to a lawmaker reveal a significant number of cases, with 1,457 instances of illegal filming detected in public restrooms between 2021 and 2023. While authorities have conducted inspections using camera detection equipment, these devices were not previously a legally mandated safety feature, highlighting the need for this updated regulation.