On 14 November 2024, South Korea witnessed its annual high-pressure college entrance exam, known as Suneung. This day is crucial for about 520,000 hopefuls vying for spots in universities across the nation. To ensure every candidate has a fair chance, police stepped in—often going beyond their usual responsibilities.
Police Deployment and Responsibilities
According to the National Police Agency, a staggering 10,256 police personnel were deployed at 1,282 test sites nationwide. Their duties included:
- Transporting exam papers securely to testing locations
- Maintaining order at entrances and managing traffic
- Patrolling areas around the test sites
- Safeguarding the delivery of answer sheets post-exam
Two officers were stationed at each site entrance until 8:10 am, when the latest entry time arrived. During the exam, they were vigilant, especially during sensitive segments like the English listening comprehension test, ensuring any noise disturbances were swiftly managed.
Controversy Over Personal Duties
Despite the commendable efforts, there’s some debate about whether police should partake in certain tasks, such as escorting latecomers. On an anonymous forum, users expressed mixed feelings. Comments included:
- “I don’t understand why tardy test-takers take advantage of police cars,”
- “It’s such a misuse of public resources,”
- “If someone’s future hinges on such a life-defining test, 20 to 30 minutes of police time once a year is not too much to ask.”
While some see police involvement as overreach, others argue that unforeseen circumstances can justify such assistance. The balancing act of providing support while managing resources effectively continues to generate discussion.
A Unified Mission
The police’s primary mandate, as outlined in the Act on the Performance of Duties by Police Officers, is to protect the rights of individuals and maintain public order. The Suneung is a once-in-a-year challenge that many in South Korea view as pivotal. Amid the debates, what remains clear is the collective effort to ensure that every student can focus on their exam without additional stressors.