Seoul recruits citizens for police academy program offering self-defense, mock shooting drills

The Seoul Autonomous Police Commission announced Wednesday that it is accepting applications for the 7th cohort of the Seoul Autonomous Police Citizens Academy, with 80 spots available through Nov. 5.

The Citizens Academy is a hands-on program that lets residents observe and experience policing firsthand. Participants learn self-defense techniques, try mock shooting drills and join officers on patrol. The program also covers the basics of the autonomous police system, strategies for preventing crime and accidents, and ways to contribute to neighborhood safety.

The three-week curriculum begins Nov. 10 with an introduction to the autonomous police system, followed by practical sessions on self-defense and emergency response, mock shooting exercises, and on-site visits to the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency and local police substations.

In the first week, on Nov. 10, participants will attend a lecture on the autonomous police system by a Dongguk University professor and take part in a self-defense class led by a serving officer. The second week, on Nov. 17, includes a tour of the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency's 112 integrated operations center and a mock shooting experience. Participants will also visit a local substation, receive a briefing on neighborhood security conditions and join officers on patrol. The second-week session can be attended on either Nov. 17 or Nov. 19.

In the final week, on Nov. 24, participants will learn how to guard against emerging fraud schemes — including overseas job scams — and receive training from a serving firefighter on emergency response skills such as CPR and the use of emergency descent devices.

A commission official said the program has expanded its practical and hands-on content, with a stronger focus on self-defense against random-motive crimes and emergency skills for protecting family members.

Any Seoul resident interested in applying may do so through the commission's website during the application period. The course is free of charge, and applicants will be notified of their selection by text message on Nov. 6.

The Citizens Academy launched as a pilot program in 2022 to deepen public understanding of the autonomous police system and encourage community participation in crime prevention and local safety. A total of 316 people have completed the course across six sessions to date.

Seoul Autonomous Police Commission Chairman Lee Yong-pyo said community policing works best when residents who know their neighborhoods take an active interest and get involved. "We have expanded the hands-on content this time around, and we hope many citizens will join us, learn together and become strong partners in keeping our neighborhoods safe," he said.