AI Cameras Spot Suicide Attempts in Seoul, Speed Up Rescues

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Seoul: Authorities in Seoul are using artificial intelligence-powered surveillance cameras to identify and prevent suicide attempts near the Han River, which is one of South Korea's most well-known suicide hotspots. The AI technology scans live CCTV data to detect risky behaviours such as hovering near bridge railings, scaling barriers, and entering restricted areas. When the technology detects suspicious behaviour, it immediately alerts emergency services, enabling rescuers to respond within minutes.

Since 2021, the smart monitoring network has been steadily expanded across bridges and riverfront regions as part of Seoul's overall suicide prevention initiatives. Officials believe the technology has greatly reduced response times and saved hundreds of lives by allowing for earlier intervention. Emergency responders, police, and rescue specialists arrive rapidly upon an alert, frequently reaching people before they can act.

Despite these efforts, South Korea's suicide rate remains one of the highest among OECD countries. Suicide is the biggest cause of mortality among persons aged 10 to 49, with experts citing heavy academic and employment pressure, financial stress, social isolation, and ongoing stigma around mental health care as major contributors to the crisis. Authorities believe AI is intended to supplement, not replace, human involvement as the city strengthens its mental health and suicide prevention programs.