All bus terminals to get spy-camera detectors

Korea’s Transport Ministry announced Wednesday that it will supply hidden-camera detectors to all bus terminals by July.

“The recent rise of digital spy camera crimes in public facilities, like subways, railways and [bus] terminals, have made many transport users feel anxious,” read a statement from the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport.

“We will supply all bus terminals in Korea with professional detection devices to alleviate that anxiety and prevent crime.”

The ministry said it will spend 200 million won ($177,600) distributing camera-detecting devices to 260 bus terminals by July. The other 35 bus terminals already have such devices.

In 2017, about 6,465 camera-related crimes were reported, up nearly 25 percent from 2016, according to data provided by the ministry. Camera-detecting devices - which can identify hidden cameras - are expected to help curtail relevant crime dramatically.

The ministry will require terminal managers to check for spy cameras regularly and pay special attention to bathrooms and nursing rooms. Operators will also be advised to post warnings and place guards or police in the terminals during peak travel periods, such as holidays, to increase security.

If bus terminal operators do not comply with the new regulations, they face fines up to 6 million won.

“Unlike airports or subways, bus terminals are all run by different operators,” explained an industry spokesperson “That’s why it is important for us to introduce a standard of regulation across terminals.”

The move to distribute hidden camera detectors comes as the government works to prevent digital crimes in transport facilities. Railways, airports and subways are also taking measure now to adopt camera-detecting devices.

BY KIM EUN-JIN [kim.eunjin1@joongang.co.kr]