Stay Safe in Korea – Here’s How to Get Police Help When Needed
Korea has a highly accessible and well-organized police system for reporting crimes and resolving public complaints. Foreigners can use multiple channels such as the 112 emergency hotline, multilingual mobile apps, and police service desks. This guide will explain how foreigners can get assistance and respond quickly in emergencies while in Korea.
Dial 112 – Korea’s Emergency Police Hotline
In Korea, if you face an emergency such as theft, assault, or a crime in progress, call 112 immediately. For those unable to speak, it’s a good idea to install apps like “Emergency Ready App” or the “112 Emergency Reporting” app. These apps support English, Chinese, Vietnamese, Filipino, and other languages and allow users to send alerts with GPS location silently.
Police Service Desks – For Everyday Public Needs
Police stations in Korea also handle passport loss, legal reports, certificates, and more. While most visits do not require an appointment, phone reservations are recommended for certain services or after-hours visits. Basic language support is often available, and some stations also handle driver’s license-related admin.
| Request Type | Where to Handle | What to Bring |
|---|---|---|
| Lost Item Report | Police Civil Desk | Passport or Alien Registration Card |
| Legal Complaint | Desk or Mail | Valid ID |
| Certificate Issuance | Police Desk | Case number or purpose |
Multilingual Police Support Systems for Foreigners
Korea provides language services to protect foreigners’ safety. For non-emergency help, call the Police Civil Center at 182 where English guidance is available. Victims such as children, women, or teens can use the “117CHAT” app to report and consult anonymously. Many police stations also have designated interpreter support desks, so check availability in advance.
Install Emergency Apps Before Trouble Happens
The “112 Emergency App” by the National Police Agency allows users to pre-register personal info and emergency contacts. With one tap, you can send your location and alert authorities silently. It’s especially helpful in noisy environments or if you can’t speak. Having this app ready gives you a strong tool to protect yourself anytime.
Tips for Making a Safe and Accurate Report
When reporting, stay calm and share clear information: your location (address or landmarks), time of incident, description of people involved, and if possible, photos or video. Avoid delay — the sooner you report, the better the chance for quick response.
Essential Numbers and Info to Remember
- Emergency Police Hotline: 112
- Police Civil Service Center: 182 (non-emergency)
- Multilingual Emergency Apps: Emergency Ready App / 112 Emergency Reporting App
- Children, Women & Youth Counseling: 117CHAT
- Text 112: If you can’t speak, send your location and short message via SMS
