Police Chief: "Maximize Protection of Permitted Assemblies... Strict Response to Prohibited Gatherings"

Ahead of Police Day on the 21st
"Efforts for Sincere and Responsible Police Activities"

Commissioner Kim Chang-ryong of the National Police Agency. / Photo by Kang Jin-hyung aymsdream@

[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Gwan-joo] With the adjustment to Level 1 social distancing, police responses to assemblies are expected to be relaxed. The police plan to guarantee assemblies that are permitted as much as possible.

On the 19th, Police Commissioner Kim Chang-ryong stated at a press briefing, "Since the administrative order criteria have changed, we will guarantee assemblies at permitted locations or with permitted numbers to the fullest extent." He added, "We will focus on managing assemblies with quarantine measures to ensure that mask-wearing, distancing, and other preventive actions are properly implemented."

However, preemptive dispersal measures will continue for prohibited assemblies. Commissioner Kim emphasized, "Assemblies that violate the standards set by the quarantine authorities must be blocked," and "We will strictly enforce necessary legal measures, such as promptly dispersing unreported or illegal assemblies."

Meanwhile, ahead of 'Police Day' on the 21st of this month, Commissioner Kim stressed that this week's Police Week will be an opportunity to gain public trust. He said, "It seems fundamental to express deep respect and gratitude for the dedication and sacrifice of those who died or were injured in the line of duty," and added, "This is a chance to review whether our activities align with the reason for the police's existence, their role, and the expectations and hopes of the public."

He continued, "If efforts such as sincere and responsible police activities are combined, I believe the public will recognize and empathize with the police," and added, "We plan to spend Police Week calmly but meaningfully, making it an opportunity to renew our determination and resolve to conduct police activities that win the hearts of the people and to become a police force that is respected and loved."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.