Han Dong-hoon addresses Jeju Island crime rate statistics

Independent lawmaker Han Dong-hoon has addressed concerns regarding Jeju Island's high crime rate, characterizing the statistics as a “statistical illusion.” He warned against the spread of misinformation suggesting that Jeju is uniquely dangerous compared to other regions.

Han explained that the current crime rate calculation—crimes per 100,000 people—uses the registered resident population as the denominator. Because Jeju has a relatively small resident population but a very high number of tourists, crimes committed by visitors are included in the total count, which artificially inflates the rate. He noted that if the statistics were based on the actual staying population (including tourists), the crime rate would not be significantly higher than other areas.

While calling for a thorough investigation into recent local incidents to ensure accountability and prevent recurrence, Han emphasized the need to correct the public perception that Jeju is an unsafe destination.