Police Chief: "The Autonomous Police System is a Timely Task... Mobilizing All Efforts for Successful Establishment"

Commissioner Kim Chang-ryong of the National Police Agency. / Photo by Yoon Dong-joo doso7@

[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Gwan-joo] Ahead of the full implementation of the autonomous police system in July, Commissioner General Kim Chang-ryong of the National Police Agency emphasized that it will be "an opportunity for a significant improvement in local public safety services" and stated, "We will strive for its successful establishment."

On the 20th, at the 'Opening of the Autonomous Police Era: Challenges and Prospects' forum held at the Korea Institute of Public Administration in Eunpyeong-gu, Seoul, Commissioner Kim said, "We will mobilize all our capabilities to ensure that the autonomous police system takes root properly and grows and develops."

Commissioner Kim said, "The autonomous police system has been a long-standing issue since the liberation of Korea and has become a path that must be taken through laws and systems." Regarding the current autonomous police model, which has not undergone organizational decentralization, he also evaluated it as "the most realistic model considering national finances and public safety conditions."

Commissioner Kim identified cooperation and communication as key factors for the success of the autonomous police system. He said, "Public safety is a responsibility that the local community must carry out together," and added, "Active communication with related organizations such as city and provincial governments and city and provincial police agencies is essential to calmly yet swiftly prepare all necessary measures for the implementation of the autonomous police system." He further predicted, "Through public safety policies reflecting local characteristics, public safety capabilities will be dramatically improved, and furthermore, the police will come closer to residents, significantly enhancing public safety services."

Additionally, Commissioner Kim mentioned the need for discussions to boost the self-esteem of field police officers. He stated, "Since the empathy and proactive willingness of field police officers are directly linked to the success or failure of the system, it is necessary to raise their motivation and instill pride and confidence," and emphasized, "As the responsible agency for operating the autonomous police system, the National Police Agency will meticulously support the system to firmly take root as a new system and culture."