National Police Agency Commissioner General Kim Chang-ryong  has issued a public apology over the apparent failure of police to respond quickly to signs of abuse displayed by a 16-month-old baby girl who died from massive injuries to her internal organs after adoption. 

In a media briefing on Wednesday, Kim offered condolences to the deceased toddler, named Jeong-in, and expressed deep apology for failing to protect the young victim from abuse. 

As the top police officer, Kim said he feels a deep sense of responsibility for the ineffectiveness of the early response and investigation by police. He also promised to overhaul the police response system to child abuse by drafting measures to prevent similar occurrences. 

He said the head of the district police station in charge of the case has been placed on standby for failing to respond quickly and investigate the signs of abuse. The officer will be replaced by a senior superintendent with expertise on youth and women's issues. 

The police chief also pledged to thoroughly investigate the cause of Jeong-in's death and take responsible countermeasures that the public can accept. 

Jeong-in died in October of last year while under the care of her adoptive parents after suffering massive damage to her internal organs, including the intestines and pancreas. The case drew public criticism and outrage after a local broadcaster aired a program last week that shed light on the alleged abuses the toddler suffered from her adoptive mother.