The police are operating a "system for prohibiting inquiries about cases between officers" to ensure the fairness of investigations, but there are criticisms that it is not effective. Introduced in 2020, this system prohibits current and former police officers from inquiring about the status of an investigation or requesting processing in a specific direction from the officer in charge of the case. However, the number of reports since the system was implemented has been low, and disciplinary action has also been minimal, such as reprimands, salary reductions, and demotions. Recently, controversies have arisen over inquiries about cases within the police force and leaks of investigative information in the Jang Yoon-gi case and the Daegu drunk driving case, further highlighting the need for improvement to the system. The Investigation Reform Committee is currently considering a plan to stipulate this system in the "Code of Conduct for Public Officials of the National Police Agency," expand its scope of application, and specify disciplinary standards.
