South Korea police investigation unit exam sees record applications

The National Police Agency’s Criminal Investigation Division reported that 12,960 candidates applied for the upcoming investigation officer selection exam, a 21% rise over the previous year and the highest number ever recorded. The exam, introduced in 2005 to train specialists in criminal, intelligence and scientific investigations, allocates successful candidates directly to investigative units. The agency noted a growing preference among officers for investigative work, citing a surge in applicants for the pre‑selection “pre‑investigation officer” program, which saw 887 applicants for 150 spots, a 5.9‑to‑1 competition ratio.

Police officials said the increase reflects heightened interest in investigative careers following recent reforms that expanded police investigative authority, and the force plans to strengthen incentives to retain skilled investigators.