Seoul's autonomous districts are accelerating the build-out of "safety infrastructure" using smart technology. The expanded deployment of advanced equipment such as smart poles is expected to enhance crime-prevention effects and improve residents' perceived safety in their neighborhoods.
According to Seoul's autonomous districts on the 21st, Gwanak-gu recently completed the installation of 20 "smart safety streetlights" around the Hyundai Market intersection (109–137 Euncheon-ro) in Seonghyeon and Jungang-dong. The project was carried out after the district was selected for the second consecutive year in the open call for the "2026 Safety Streetlight Plus Support Program," organized by Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power and executed by the Miral Welfare Foundation.
Following last year's installation near Sillim Station, the district expanded the project this year to the Hyundai Market intersection. The area had suffered from inadequate lighting due to aging streetlamps, and the new installation is expected to significantly improve the late-night pedestrian environment.
Gwanak-gu's smart safety streetlights are integrated smart poles equipped with high-resolution CCTV, LED emergency bells, public Wi-Fi and a display for district announcements. Notably, the CCTV is linked to Gwanak-gu's integrated control center, allowing real-time monitoring of emergencies, while the emergency bell enables immediate response.
Guro-gu also plans to install a total of 36 "Guro-style smart poles" in the Gaebong 2-dong and 3-dong areas through its "Smart Village Project." Selected in an open call by the Ministry of Science and ICT, the project carries a total budget of 1.313 billion won, including 919 million won in state funding. Construction began in June and is targeted for completion within the year.
The Guro-style smart poles will be installed in five types based on function. Streetlight smart poles will be placed at major intersections, while CCTV smart poles will be deployed in residential areas and alleys. Smart poles serving various purposes — including illegal parking enforcement, traffic safety and information for blind spots — will also be installed.
In particular, the district plans to introduce an AI-based video analytics system to strengthen on-site response, including deterring illegal dumping, and to enhance safety in traffic-vulnerable areas such as school zones and steep slopes.
Both districts aim to reduce crime blind spots and raise residents' perceived safety through the expansion of smart poles. A Gwanak-gu official said, "We will do our utmost to realize a 'safe smart city Gwanak' so that residents can walk the streets at night with peace of mind." A Guro-gu official said, "Through the Smart Village Project, we will expand smart infrastructure to strengthen residents' safety and improve convenience."
