Cybersecurity is an essential part of protecting these assets. But sensitive information and technology also exist in the physical environment.
Documents can be printed. Equipment and prototypes can be accessed. Visitors and contractors may enter sensitive areas. Employees may use mobile devices around confidential operations.
This means technology protection is not only a cybersecurity consideration. Physical security can provide an additional layer of protection around the people, places and assets connected to sensitive information.
Technology protection is becoming increasingly important in South Korea
Technology leakage has received growing attention in South Korea.
According to South Korea's National Office of Investigation, the number of overseas technology leakage cases detected by police increased from 9 in 2021 to 27 in 2024. Of the 27 cases detected in 2024, 11 involved designated national core technologies.
Changes to South Korea's Industrial Technology Protection Act have also increased the potential consequences associated with technology leakage. Amendments that took effect on July 22, 2025 strengthened penalties and introduced additional measures to protect national core technologies.
These developments reinforce the importance of considering technology protection from multiple perspectives.
Cybersecurity protects networks, systems and digital information. Physical security can complement those measures by helping organizations manage access to sensitive locations, equipment and physical information.
Where can physical security support technology protection?
Every organization has a different risk profile. The appropriate security measures depend on factors such as the facility, operations, information being protected, applicable regulations and assessed risks.
However, there are several areas organizations can consider as part of a broader security strategy.
1. Managing access according to risk
Not every part of a facility requires the same level of protection.
Organizations can consider dividing facilities into different security zones based on the sensitivity of the activities performed there. Access permissions can then be aligned with an individual's role and operational requirements.
Depending on the environment and risk assessment, physical measures can include access cards, controlled entrances, visitor procedures and additional authentication for particularly sensitive areas.
The original article similarly identifies layered zoning and differentiated access as important considerations for manufacturing and research environments.
2. Improving visibility around sensitive areas
Video surveillance can help security teams maintain awareness around important entrances, restricted areas and other sensitive locations.
Modern video systems may also include analytics that help security teams identify selected events or activities requiring attention.
The objective is not to replace security professionals. Instead, technology can provide information that helps trained personnel assess situations and respond appropriately.
The article identifies physical security monitoring and video analytics as potential components of a more connected security approach.
3. Managing visitors and contractors
Employees are not the only people who may need access to sensitive facilities.
Visitors, suppliers, maintenance personnel and contractors may require temporary access to operational areas. Clear visitor management procedures can help organizations understand who is on site, where they are authorized to go and when their access should end.
Depending on the site's risk assessment, organizations may consider measures such as pre-registration, temporary credentials, defined access areas and escort procedures.
4. Protecting physical information and materials
Sensitive information does not only exist on computers.
Printed documents, prototypes, removable media, discarded components and other physical materials may also contain valuable information.
Organizations can therefore consider how sensitive physical materials are stored, handled and securely disposed of as part of their wider information protection strategy.
The original article highlights documents, removable media, prototypes, scrap materials and other physical assets as areas that may require appropriate controls.
5. Connecting people, processes and technology
One of the most important opportunities is not necessarily adding another security system. It is helping existing systems and processes work together.
For example, when an employee changes roles or leaves an organization, both digital permissions and physical access rights may need to be reviewed.
Connecting relevant processes can help reduce gaps between physical security, cybersecurity, Human Resources and operational teams.
The article provides a similar example in which changes in employment status can trigger corresponding changes to physical access privileges.
One risk can require several layers of protection
Physical security and cybersecurity should not be viewed as competing approaches.
A single security risk can involve several layers.
For example, protecting sensitive research may involve digital access controls for files, physical access controls for the laboratory, procedures governing visitors and contractors, and employees who understand how sensitive information should be handled.
Together, these layers can contribute to a more comprehensive approach to security.
From separate systems to connected security
Organizations can also consider how mature their approach to physical and information security has become.
At an early stage, access control, video surveillance, cybersecurity and operational procedures may function largely independently.
As security programs develop, these capabilities can become increasingly coordinated. Information from different systems can support a broader understanding of what is happening across an organization.
More advanced approaches may also use analytics and connected security information to help security professionals identify relevant events and make more informed decisions.
This does not mean that every organization needs the same technology or level of integration. Security measures should be proportionate to the organization's risks, operating environment and requirements.
Building a more connected approach to technology protection
As South Korea continues to play an important role in semiconductors, electronics, research and advanced manufacturing, protecting sensitive technology remains an important consideration for many organizations.
Cybersecurity continues to be essential. Physical security provides another important layer by helping organizations manage access to sensitive locations, equipment and physical information.
The strongest approach is therefore not necessarily physical security or cybersecurity in isolation.
It is about understanding risk across the organization and determining how people, technology and processes can work together to protect what matters most.
Securitas works with organizations to understand their security needs and develop security solutions based on their operations, environments and risks.
Learn more about Securitas Korea's security solutions and how a more connected approach to security can support your organization.