Unceasing Namgyeong Contrasted in a Video from 2 Years Ago
"Somewhat Inappropriate but No Rule Violations"
A video showing a traffic police officer seemingly neglecting traffic confusion on a congested road has sparked controversy among netizens. While a fellow officer was struggling to manage the tangled cars, the criticized officer was merely standing with her hands behind her back, watching, which is the core of the criticism.
Some have focused on the fact that the officer is a female police officer, even arguing the 'ineffectiveness of female officers.' However, a counterargument has also emerged, suggesting that 'the female officer intentionally refrained from intervening to maintain consistent traffic control,' leading to divided opinions.
On the 28th, a short video titled "A Traffic Police Officer Currently in Controversy" was uploaded to an online community. [Photo by Online Community]
On the 28th, a short video titled "A Controversial Traffic Police Officer" was posted on an online community. The video shows male and female traffic police officers managing traffic on a road near Sangdo Station in Dongjak-gu, Seoul.
In particular, the video contrasts the male officer continuously giving hand signals with the female officer standing with her hands behind her back. The female officer is also seen lingering near the center line, keeping a distance from the cars, or looking around.
Dongjak Police Station Judges "Female Officer's Attitude Somewhat Inappropriate"
As the video surfaced, netizens poured criticism on the female officer. Accusations of negligence and sarcastic remarks like "Did you come out for a walk?" followed.
Meanwhile, Dongjak Police Station, where the female officer was assigned at the time of filming, stated that "it is true that the female officer's attitude was somewhat inappropriate."
While the male officer was actively giving hand signals, the female officer was supposed to provide auxiliary support nearby. The police explained that when an auxiliary officer assists, the primary officer's work becomes much easier.
However, there are no regulations stating that one officer must always perform auxiliary duties or that standing with hands behind the back during duty is prohibited.
The ideal is for one officer to take the primary role and the other to assist. But not following this does not constitute a violation of regulations.
Additionally, the police explained that it is not recommended for both male and female officers to actively give hand signals simultaneously as primary officers, as this could confuse drivers.
Meanwhile, the controversial video is estimated to have been filmed two years ago. A police official said, "I don't know why an old video is causing controversy now," but added, "We have advised current officers to be mindful of their work attitude."
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