Think twice before dressing as a cop this Halloween

Online platforms to block searches for police uniforms and costumes

Police will crack down on the manufacture, sale and distribution of imitation police uniforms and equipment ahead of Halloween, the National Police Agency said Sunday.

The nationwide operation, conducted jointly with regional police agencies, will run from Monday through Nov. 1.

Police said such items could be used to impersonate officers or cause confusion during police operations.

Unauthorized wearing or possession of police uniforms and equipment, including legally regulated imitations, can carry penalties of up to six months in prison or a fine of up to 3 million won, police said.

Police will work with the Korea Online Shopping Association to monitor internet portals and major secondhand trading platforms and block searches for terms such as “police uniforms” and “police clothing.”

They will also step up inspections of 54 major online retailers.

Officers will conduct outreach and enforcement operations in major areas nationwide, including Seoul’s Itaewon and Hongdae, referring suspected violations for investigation.

Police also urged people to refrain from selling or using police-themed costumes and accessories, warning that wearers could be mistaken for actual officers at night or in crowded settings.