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Amid Google's artificial intelligence (AI) program AlphaGo's defeat of world go champion Lee Se-dol, attention is growing over the incorporation of AI into other areas such as criminal investigations.
According to a report from the Korea Institute of Criminology, Sunday, AI could be applied to crime prevention, investigations and at correctional institutions as well as monitoring certain ex-convicts once they are released.
The report says driverless cars and drones could be employed as crime prevention tools, with the latter expected to be used soon. "Driverless cars and robots can replace the current police force in patrolling. By analyzing criminal data, these devices can be placed in high crime areas," said Yun Jee-young, the author of the report.
Intelligent devices can also be used in investigations. Drones can observe sites utilizing zoom-in lenses as well as take pictures.
Robots can also be utilized in correctional facilities, in patrolling and managing inmates. They may be able to provide interpretation services for foreign inmates and offer medical services, the report stated.
Korea has already tried to use robots in such institutions. In 2012, , the world's first robot guard was placed in a prison in Pohang, North Gyeongsang Province, as a pilot project, but was removed due to mechanical failure, and noise during night patrols.
Researchers are also looking into expanding intelligent devices to monitor former convicts.
"Electronic bracelets for sex offenders are an example. These devices have been upgraded to monitor the pulse, body temperature and location of wearers to be able to predict their behavior," Yun said.
Drones with voice and face recognition functions can also be utilized in monitoring.
At the same time, however, the report stressed the need to strictly define the role of the devices and draw up related regulations concerning their use.
"Issues such as privacy must be considered, as the devices can be used for surveillance purposes without due raid and search warrants," Yun said. "The nation may need regulations about privacy infringement during information collection, as well as about how to keep such information."
