The Effects of Spatial Characteristics on Violent Crime Incidence and Violent Crime Hot Spots in Korea

Abstract

The primary purpose of this study is to investigate the causal inference between violent crime and spatial characteristics of local area utilizing spatial linear models and spatial discrete choice models and to propose alternative public policies for desirable urban environments in South Korea. The spatial variables adopted in this study are the proportion of hotel and restaurant businesses in an area, and road accessibility. These two variables are important factors that reflect the industrial structure and population influx. This dissertation is composed of two essays. In the first essay, the impacts of the demographic, socio-economic, and spatial factors on violent crime are analyzed utilizing sever spatial linear models. The results reveal that the increase in the number of hotel and restaurant businesses is positively associated with the incidence of crime. In addition, enhancement of the road accessibility has a positive effect on crime. The second essay analyzes the effects of the spatial variables on violent crime hot spot using spatial discrete choice models. The results show that the impact of the spatial variables that determine violent crime hot spots proves to be highly effective. The proportion of the hotel and restaurant establishments shows positive effects on determining violent crime hot spots. Furthermore, the higher the road accessibility of an area, the higher was the probability of becoming a violent crime hot spot. Regional characteristics clearly affect the level of crime incidence. Based on the findings, this thesis suggests some implications to urban planners and policymakers. Further studies on the relationship between crime and urban planning policies are necessary for crime prevention and safer urban communities. In particular, interdisciplinary research between criminology and urban planning is essential to prevent crime in urban areas.