An Unprecedented Probationer

The Annam Macheon Police Substation Conference Room. Crumpled paper cups lay scattered on the old conference table. The Precinct Chief sat lost in thought, arms crossed, while the Patrol Team Leaders sat opposite him, across the table.

“No matter how I think about it, this isn’t right.”

The Patrol Team Leader of Team 2 shook his head.

“He works quickly and well. I’ll admit that. But he’s still a Probationer. We shouldn’t forget that.”

The Team Leader of Team 1 chimed in.

“He’s only been at the Police Substation for a few months, and you’re talking about a special promotion? That’s absurd.”

The Precinct Chief, who had been tapping the table, his chair half-pulled back, finally spoke.

“It’s not unprecedented. Nine years ago, a Probationary Police Officer at the Ulsan Eastern Police Station was specially promoted to Corporal in just one year.”

“What? How is that possible?”

“It was possible. He caught a professional thief while at the Police Substation and was recognized for his groundbreaking efforts in preventing traffic fatalities. Of course, according to the Promotion and Appointment Regulations, the promotion was granted after his official appointment.”...