[Video] Out of CCTV Range: 'Sound Detection' Keeps Citizens Safe - MTN

Public restroom areas, with limited visibility and a higher risk of potential crime, have always posed safety concerns. These areas are often beyond CCTV coverage, creating critical security blind spots. Now, a new solution has emerged to address these blind spots.

Reporter So-hyun Kim went on-site to explore the initiative.

At a subway station in Incheon, a computer screen in the station control room flashes with an alert, notifying staff of a scream.

A sound incident has been detected. Alongside the detected sound's details and location, the system allows station staff to respond quickly to the exact spot where the sound originated.

The ‘ListenAI’ solution, which analyzes audio cues in real-time, has been implemented here to improve restroom safety. The system identifies emergencies by recognizing 10 types of sounds and audio cues, such as glass breaking or screams.

Previously, restroom security relied heavily on staff patrols or reports, but with this system, real-time monitoring and rapid response have become achievable.

Incheon Transit Corporation has announced plans to gradually expand this solution across its facilities.

Suji Ahn, Deputy Manager, Research & Development Team, Incheon Transit Corporation:
“Subway stations experience emergencies, passenger incidents, and even sudden collapses from time to time. With this system, our staff can respond swiftly and efficiently to emergencies. That’s why we’ve chosen to implement this technology.”

As public interest in safety rises, solutions like ListenAI have drawn attention to enhancing security. Sound analysis technology offers monitoring where traditional CCTV cannot, such as restrooms, dressing rooms, and dark, secluded areas. The system analyzes sounds without recording them, maintaining privacy while providing security.

Suji Lee, CEO of Deeply:
“Currently, we’re focusing on indoor locations such as restrooms where emergency sounds are likely to occur. In the future, we plan to extend this technology to remote areas like mountain trails or sparsely populated regions where incidents often go undetected. By continuously monitoring for screams or other distress sounds, this system enables fast response, no matter where or when an incident occurs.”

Sound has emerged as a new safety solution. Expectations are rising for a safer society through sound analysis.

— Sohyun Kim, MTN News

https://news.mtn.co.kr/news-detail/2024101416411734627