Understanding crime occurrence is the first step toward establishing effective criminal justice policies. This study analyzes various crime statistics to assess the current level and trends of crime in South Korea. The key findings are as follows:

First, according to 『Crime Analysis』 published by the Supreme Prosecutors’ Office, the total number of reported crimes in South Korea in 2010, excluding traffic offenses, was 1,332,153 cases. This indicates that approximately three out of every 100 citizens become victims of crime annually. Over the past 30 years, the number of reported crimes has increased at an average annual rate of 3.4%. Although this rate decreased slightly to 2.1% over the past decade (2000-2010), the upward trend persists. Traditional criminal offenses under the Criminal Act, such as theft and fraud, have been the primary drivers of this increase. Furthermore, despite a decline in violent crimes, there has been a notable rise in serious violent crimes, such as murder, robbery, rape, and arson, which requires close attention.

Second, compared to OECD member countries, South Korea’s rate of crime occurrence is higher than the OECD average. This finding challenges the prevailing perception of strong public safety in South Korea. Notably, many major developed countries have experienced a declining trend in crime since 2000. When combined with South Korea’s increasing crime rate, this suggests a relatively higher risk of worsening crime conditions in South Korea compared to other advanced nations.

The implications of these findings are clear. The government must intensify efforts to prevent crime, with particular focus on traditional crimes such as theft and fraud. Further research is required to determine the resources needed and to identify policy improvements for enhancing the effectiveness of crime prevention measures. This study highlights the importance of refining crime statistics and conducting continuous trend analysis. South Korea’s crime statistics have faced significant criticisms, limiting their utility in policymaking. Consequently, this has created a vicious cycle of low interest in improving statistical data.

Breaking this cycle requires coordinated and concerted efforts by both policymakers and researchers. Policymakers must recognize that reducing crime is difficult without accurate and detailed information on the nature, location, perpetrators, victims, and extent of crimes. Fundamental reforms in the collection and analysis of statistical data are necessary. Additionally, greater transparency in the dissemination of crime statistics is essential to encourage academic research and support evidence-based policymaking.

Researchers also have a critical role to play. Beyond pointing out the limitations of existing statistics, researchers must demonstrate their analytical utility by effectively utilizing available data. The accumulation of such research will help policymakers better understand the importance of statistical data. This study aims to contribute, albeit modestly, to fostering such a shift in awareness.

제1장 서 론

제2장 범죄통계 및 범죄 동향 분석작업의 현황
　제1절범죄 관련 조사통계: 「전국범죄피해조사」
　제2절행정통계
　제3절범죄 동향 분석

제3장 우리나라의 범죄 발생 현황 및 국제비교
　제1절범죄 발생 현황
　제2절국제비교

제4장 범죄 발생의 중장기 추이와 원천
　제1절개괄
　제2절형법범 증가의 원천
　　1.절도
　　2.절도를 제외한 재산범죄
　　3.강력범죄
　　4.종합 및 평가

제5장 「범죄피해조사보고」 자료의 분석40

제6장 결론

참고문헌
부 록
ABSTRACT