The Challenges Faced by Frontline Police Officers
Lieutenant A, who works at a police station in Seoul, is responsible for investigating complaints and accusations. On a typical month, an investigator at a frontline police station handles around 30 to 40 cases. However, Lieutenant A’s workload is significantly higher, as he must meet with at least 60 people each month—complainants, accused individuals, and other related parties.
Lieutenant A explained, “Fraud cases often involve multiple suspects or victims, which increases the number of people we need to investigate.” He added, “It’s realistically impossible to investigate 5 to 6 people every day.” This situation has worsened since the abolition of the complaint rejection system in 2023, which required police to review every single complaint or accusation, leading to an overwhelming workload.
The rise in relationship-based crimes such as domestic violence and stalking, along with an increase in fraud cases, has placed additional pressure on frontline officers. Despite the growing number of cases, there has been little improvement in investigative manpower. Frontline officers note that even with their best efforts, processing cases takes considerable time.
Due to these challenges, cybercrimes and fraud cases are often referred to as “investigators’ graveyards.” These cases are not only time-consuming but also involve complex and sophisticated methods, making it difficult to track and apprehend perpetrators. Superintendent B, head of the investigations team at an Incheon police station, said, “In the past, fraud cases were often simple loan defaults, but nowadays, many involve new technologies like cryptocurrency.” He added, “These cases require team-based investigations, but we lack the manpower and investigative capabilities.”
The Strain on the Women and Youth Division
For years, the Women and Youth Division, which primarily investigates relationship-based crimes, has experienced a steady exodus of officers. Since a series of stalking murders occurred last year, all reported cases have been directly handled by the division. Superintendent C, head of the Women and Youth Division at a Seoul police station, said, “Frontline officers are now responsible for separating perpetrators from victims, applying for measures like electronic anklets or detention, and monitoring both parties even after cases are referred to prosecutors, but the manpower remains the same. Who wouldn’t want to escape this?”
Another division head, Superintendent D, stated, “The workload has increased since regulations changed to require investigators to look into stalking cases on the day they are reported.” This shift has further burdened an already overstretched department.
The Need for Reform and Support
The increasing complexity of cases, combined with limited resources, has created a challenging environment for police officers. Many feel that the current system is unsustainable. There is a growing call for more support, better training, and improved investigative tools to help officers manage their workloads effectively.
As the nature of crime evolves, so too must the strategies used to combat it. Without adequate resources and support, frontline officers will continue to face immense pressure, potentially affecting the quality of investigations and public safety.
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