South Korea faces unprecedented police leadership vacuum

South Korea’s police hierarchy is experiencing an unprecedented dual vacancy. Acting Police Commissioner Yu Jae‑sung has been serving in an interim role since last June, and on 30 May the head of the National Investigation Bureau, Park Seong‑ju, retired at the mandatory age. No successor has been appointed, leaving both the top police position and the chief of nationwide investigations empty.

The leadership gap raises concerns over ongoing high‑profile cases, including the months‑long investigation of former lawmaker Kim Byung‑gi. Police officials warn that the absence of a permanent chief hampers decision‑making and could undermine the independence and effectiveness of investigations. The issue is seen as especially critical as the government prepares to dismantle the prosecution service and launch a new major crime investigation agency in October, tasks that will fall to the police under the current leadership vacuum.

Critics argue the delay reflects political interference and jeopardizes public safety, urging the administration to finalize appointments promptly.