“The police must prioritize responsibility over the authority they hold.”
Choi Young-soo, the chief of the Muan Police Station, highlighted the importance of 'fairness' and 'responsibility' as the foundation for earning the trust of residents. He believes that while investigations must be swift, it is equally crucial to ensure that no one is left feeling wronged.
In a recent tea time with reporters, Choi identified 'Ho-yeon-ji-gi' (浩然之氣) as his motto.
Originating from Mencius, Ho-yeon-ji-gi refers to a vast and upright spirit that fills the space between heaven and earth. For Choi, it signifies a stance of being able to face anyone with integrity rather than a grand slogan.
“Even if I stand before a thousand people, I live with the belief that I have nothing to be ashamed of,” he said, adding that he always encourages his staff to work in a manner that allows them to be proud in front of the community.
This principle is also clear in his approach to investigations.
Choi stressed the need for prompt responses to various incidents in the Muan area, while also emphasizing that no one should be unfairly treated or left feeling wronged during the investigative process. He stated that the goal is not merely to close cases quickly but to ensure that all parties involved can understand the facts thoroughly.
“Investigations should be conducted swiftly, but no one should be left feeling wronged,” he said. “It is important to handle matters fairly and without leaving any doubts.”
Looking ahead to changes in the investigative environment after October, Choi placed emphasis on 'responsibility' over 'authority.' He noted that changes in investigative powers should not be seen as a means to strengthen the police organization but rather as an increase in the responsibility owed to the public.
“The police should be seen as having responsibilities rather than just authority,” he said. “We must be a police force that is responsible for the lives and safety of residents, not one that views residents merely as a source of authority.”
Choi's philosophy on policing was evident during a recent fire at Gyeongnam Honorsville in Namak.
During the incident, the police did not limit their role to maintaining order. They assisted residents by providing access to restrooms and deploying vehicles for announcements, actively seeking ways to support those affected.
The police viewed their role at the fire scene as extending beyond mere order maintenance, recognizing the need to alleviate the anxiety and discomfort of residents who suddenly found themselves displaced.
Choi Young-soo emphasized that “the reason for the police's existence ultimately lies with the residents,” underscoring the importance of community-centered policing.
With 'Ho-yeon-ji-gi' in mind, the police aim to act without prioritizing authority, ensuring investigations are swift while leaving no one feeling wronged. The 'upright police' that Choi advocates for signifies a force that can explain not only the outcomes but also the processes to the community.
It remains to be seen how the Muan Police Station will implement these principles in actual investigations and community safety efforts.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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