I vaguely remember that SOME npcs, even those without any pathing would turn back the default direction they were facing... (maybe they did had no move pathing direction adjustment just for this)
I think they were mostly guards....
But I certainly also remember that some would remained turn the wrong way for hours... Most merchants for one...
I remember approaching a merchant/quest npc from behind, hailing him.. and going AFK for like 30 min - when I got back he was still looking at me