The head of South Korea’s National Investigation Headquarters, Park Seong-ju, is retiring at the end of the month, but police have not initiated an open recruitment process for his replacement. This decision has raised questions, particularly as the planned dismantling of the Prosecutor General’s Office approaches. Critics suggest the lack of public application signals another internal promotion, potentially reinforcing concerns about the influence of the prosecution. The absence of a public search comes amid ongoing debate regarding the restructuring of investigative powers between the police and the prosecution. Previous appointments to the position have also drawn criticism for being internal selections. This latest move fuels speculation about the future direction of investigations and the balance of power within the South Korean justice system. The police have not yet commented on the reasons for bypassing an open recruitment process.