South Korea has introduced a mobile app that allows stalking survivors to track convicted perpetrators in real time, as official figures show stalking reports have tripled since a dedicated law was enacted in 2021.
The app, available since late June, enables a survivor to see a tagged perpetrator's location on a map once they come within a 2km radius. If the perpetrator approaches within 1km, the system automatically alerts police and probation authorities, who then call the victim directly.
Sharp Rise in Stalking Reports
Reports of stalking in South Korea reached 44,687 in 2025, a threefold increase compared to the four years since the stalking law was introduced in 2021. According to the data, around 80% of stalking victims are women.
The rise in reports is attributed to greater awareness and legal recourse following the 2021 legislation, which made stalking a criminal offense with stricter penalties.
How the Tracking App Works
The app is designed for survivors who have a court-issued protection order against a convicted stalker. Once a perpetrator is tagged in the system, their movements are visible to the survivor in real time.
When the tagged individual enters the 2km radius, the survivor receives a notification with the perpetrator's location. At the 1km mark, an alert is sent to police and probation authorities, prompting them to call the victim and assess the situation.
Expert Commentary and Broader Context
Raphael Rashid, a journalist based in Seoul, discussed the app's implications with Guardian Australia's Rafqa Touma. Rashid noted that the app represents a technological response to a persistent safety concern, though its effectiveness depends on reliable GPS data and timely police response.
The introduction of the app comes amid ongoing debates in South Korea about how to better protect victims of stalking and domestic violence. While the app offers a new layer of security, experts emphasize that it is not a substitute for comprehensive legal and social support systems.
The app's launch marks a significant step in leveraging technology for victim safety, but its long-term impact on stalking rates remains to be seen. As the system operates, authorities will monitor its usage and outcomes to refine the approach.
