Yoon Hee-geun Appointed Commissioner of National Police Agency... "Will Advance Prevention-Centered Policing Activities"

"Optimal Measures Must Be Considered from the People's Perspective"
"Police Authority Must Be Exercised Under Strict Checks and Surveillance"
"Neutrality and Accountability Must Not Be Undermined"

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Seongpil Cho] Yoon Hee-geun, appointed as the first head of public safety under the Yoon Seok-yeol administration on the 10th, stated, "We will further advance prevention-centered policing activities."

In his inauguration speech that afternoon, Commissioner Yoon said, "We will eliminate safety gaps by proactively blocking crime risks and removing blind spots through meticulous attention and care for vulnerable groups and crime victims." He added, "Recently, malicious crimes such as voice phishing and jeonse fraud have evolved systematically, causing widespread damage. The police will take the lead in establishing close cooperation systems with related organizations and gathering societal capabilities."

Commissioner Yoon expressed his feelings on assuming office, saying, "I feel a great sense of mission entrusted with the responsibility of leading the Korean police during difficult times." He continued, "Until the moment my term ends, I pledge to devote all my 30 years of police experience and reflections to the nation, the people, and the field," adding, "I will fundamentally reflect on 'what is truly for the people' and prepare a future blueprint."

He also emphasized, "Issues surrounding police system reforms must be carefully considered from the people's perspective under the noble values of democracy and the rule of law," warning, "We must not make the mistake of losing sight of the essential values of the police." He further stated, "Police authority must be exercised under strict checks and supervision, but the neutrality and accountability of the police must never be compromised."

Commissioner Yoon stressed, "The rule of law is the foundation of public safety as well as the driving force for social integration and national development." He pledged, "We will spread the awareness that 'following the law is beneficial' and will strongly respond to illegal violence beyond the bounds of the law to prevent harm to citizens."

To the staff, Commissioner Yoon promised, "We will actively work on improving treatment, including adjusting base pay to the level of public security positions and resolving structural rank stagnation." He also said, "With a humble heart and a leading attitude, I will listen to your voices," adding, "I will heed harsh criticism rather than sweet words." He concluded his inauguration speech by expressing gratitude, "Once again, I thank all my colleagues who are sweating on the front lines at this very moment," and stated, "All 140,000 police officers in Korea are one."

Earlier, President Yoon Seok-yeol approved Commissioner Yoon's appointment that afternoon and presented the appointment letter. After paying respects at the National Cemetery, Commissioner Yoon skipped the inauguration ceremony and visited frontline police stations as his first official duty. On the day, he planned to encourage staff by visiting Gangnam Police Station, the Investigation Police Station, and others, urging strict crackdowns on malicious fraud and drug offenders, which the government has emphasized.