Yoon Hee-geun: "Police Authority Also Subject to Checks and Surveillance... Apologize to the Public for Conflict with Police Bureau"

"Uniting Members' Hearts to Revitalize Atmosphere"
Police Organizational Culture Reform... Emphasizing Public Safety

Candidate Yoon Hee-geun for Commissioner of the National Police Agency is attending the confirmation hearing held at the National Assembly on the 8th, waiting for the hearing to begin. Photo by Yoon Dong-ju doso7@

[Asia Economy Reporter Seongpil Cho] Yoon Hee-geun, the nominee for Commissioner General of the National Police Agency, expressed regret on the 8th regarding the conflict between the government and the police organization caused by the establishment of the Police Bureau under the Ministry of the Interior and Safety.

In his opening remarks at the National Assembly's Public Administration and Security Committee confirmation hearing that morning, Yoon said, "I believe the concerns of the policy department, the opinions of field colleagues, and the worries of the public, though from different positions and circumstances, all stem from a heartfelt affection for the police." He emphasized that the police exist for the people. Yoon stated, "Police authority granted by the people must be exercised properly and transparently, and police power must also be subject to checks and supervision," adding, "The neutrality and accountability of the police for the public and the common good are values that must never be compromised."

Yoon also pledged to resolve the internal discord that has persisted since the launch of the Police Bureau and to strive for advancement. He said, "The police will commit to establishing a sustainable public safety system and a more efficient criminal justice system with an open mind," and added, "We will promptly unite the hearts of our members, renew the atmosphere, and devote ourselves more faithfully to our core duties." He continued, "Now, the police are preparing to mature and take a new leap forward," and said, "If entrusted with the responsibilities of Commissioner General, I will lay the stepping stones for progress and elevate the Korean police to the next level for the future."

He also emphasized the 'core duty of the police'?public safety. He said, "Public safety is a fundamental right of the people and the reason for the police's existence," and pledged, "We will create a safe community so that citizens can fully enjoy a happy daily life free from crime and danger." Yoon further stated, "On the foundation of fairness and empathy, we will uphold law and order, common sense, and principles," and added, "While strictly punishing illegality and violence, we will enforce the law impartially to spread public consensus that 'compliance with the law is in everyone's interest.'"

He also promised to reform the police organizational culture. Yoon said, "The honor of uniformed officers and the pride and dignity of frontline personnel are the key driving forces that enhance the quality of police activities," and pledged, "We will improve treatment and expand welfare infrastructure so that officers can dedicate themselves to their duties confidently and proudly." He added, "Based on close communication and practical education, we will enhance individual problem-solving capabilities and foster a lively and vibrant workplace atmosphere."