[Exclusive] Jeju Governor Wears Police Uniform... Are the Badges Just for Show?

Controversy Over Badge-Wearing at Autonomous Police Event
Criticism Mounts Over "Undermining the Symbolism of the Uniform"

Jeong Hoon Oh, Governor of Jeju Province, wore a police uniform complete with shoulder epaulets and badge at the 19th anniversary ceremony of the Jeju Autonomous Police Agency on the 7th, sparking controversy over what was seen as an "excessive formal display." Photo by Jeju Province

Oh Younghoon, Governor of Jeju Special Self-Governing Province, has become embroiled in controversy after images were released showing him wearing a full police uniform, complete with shoulder epaulets and badge, at the 19th anniversary ceremony of the Jeju Autonomous Police Agency. The incident has sparked debate over what is being called an "excessive formal display."

The criticism has intensified, particularly after it was revealed that the badge on the governor's chest was provided directly by the Jeju Autonomous Police Agency. Critics argue that this undermines both the symbolism of the uniform and the procedural legitimacy associated with it.

On July 7, Jeju Special Self-Governing Province explained that Governor Oh wore the uniform at the anniversary ceremony to "symbolize a sense of unity with the autonomous police." The Jeju Autonomous Police Agency also stated that the uniform was provided "to encourage field officers and to express solidarity between organizations."

Regarding the epaulets on the governor's uniform, the agency clarified that they were "not rank insignia, but a design featuring the autonomous police logo." However, concerns have been raised that their appearance closely resembles actual police rank insignia, potentially causing confusion. The main focus of the controversy, however, centers on the five rows of badges?fifteen in total?displayed on the governor's chest.

The Jeju Autonomous Police explained that the badges were intended "to symbolically reflect the governor's experience and to complete the appearance," adding that "they were not officially awarded, but rather purchased from general specialty retailers and attached." In other words, the badges?typically awarded based on achievements and commendations?were used merely as props for visual effect.

This explanation has provoked strong backlash, especially among former and current members of the military and police. They argue that badges are not mere decorations, but rather symbols of a public official's service record and honors, representing marks of distinction and honor.

Among the badges worn by Governor Oh were those indicating 10 and 20 years of service, as well as various commendation and service record badges, many of which are awarded exclusively to active-duty police officers.

One retired general criticized, "It takes years of service and sacrifice to earn even a single badge. Purchasing and attaching them at will, simply because of one’s experience, reveals a fundamental lack of understanding about the meaning of the uniform."

Internal police regulations also restrict badge-wearing to "official recipients," with clear rules governing the order and criteria for attachment. A former police executive, identified as Mr. A, stated, "While wearing the uniform may be permitted for protocol or promotional purposes, badges must not be worn by those who are not qualified. This could disrupt the internal order of the police organization."

This controversy has erupted in the wake of the December 3, 2024 declaration of martial law, which led to the arrest of senior police and military officials and has shaken the authority and symbolism of uniformed organizations in society.

Amidst the resulting confusion and mixed public perceptions regarding the meaning and symbolism of uniforms, the act of a local government head wearing badges not officially awarded is being criticized as a sign of insufficient understanding of the symbolism and procedures associated with uniforms.

A uniform is not merely clothing, but a public symbol representing responsibility and procedure. In particular, badges are awarded as symbols of achievement and dedication, and their wearing is subject to strict standards. This incident has prompted calls for renewed reflection on the true meaning of uniforms and badges.