As conspiracy theories about “public security” and “part-timers” swirl over long-haired police officers
khan.co.kr
When long-haired police officers spark viral conspiracy theories about fake cops and "part-timers," it reveals how pattern recognition and distrust of authority fuel misinformation spirals.
Proportionality BiasConspiracy Theory FormationInstitutional TrustSocial Epistemology
Theory Briefing
- Long-haired police officers triggered swirling conspiracy theories labeling them 'public security agents' or 'part-timers,' not real cops.
- The National Police Agency was compelled to issue an official statement, showing how viral misinformation forces institutional response.
- The episode illustrates how minor visual anomalies can hijack public trust, feeding proportionality bias and institutional suspicion.