Thefts Per 100,000 People in Asian Countries

South Korea records the highest rate of thefts among selected Asian countries, according to newly released figures from the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). The data sheds light on significant variations in theft prevalence across the region, with South Korea far outpacing its regional peers.

The statistics show that South Korea experienced 345 thefts per 100,000 people, the highest among the surveyed nations. Japan follows with 293, while Turkey reports 277 per 100,000 individuals.

In contrast, theft rates in other countries drop sharply. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Thailand both report 48 thefts per 100,000, followed by Pakistan (35) and India (29). The Philippines records 24, with Indonesia slightly lower at 20.

At the bottom of the list, Myanmar stands out with just 9 thefts per 100,000 people, marking the lowest rate among the group.

Regional and Socioeconomic Factors at Play

While the UNODC data does not offer direct explanations for the disparity, analysts suggest that differences in law enforcement practices, urban density, socioeconomic conditions, and reporting systems could all contribute to the wide variation.

Countries like South Korea and Japan, known for their dense urban populations and sophisticated infrastructure, may experience higher levels of opportunistic theft or have more rigorous crime reporting mechanisms. Meanwhile, countries with lower reported rates may face underreporting or differing legal definitions of theft.

Implications for Policy and Public Safety

The data could prompt further investigation into the root causes of theft in high-incidence nations and encourage governments to reassess crime prevention strategies, urban planning, and public safety awareness campaigns.

As Asia continues to urbanize rapidly, crime trends such as theft remain key indicators of social dynamics and public trust in law enforcement.

Source: United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC)