Star English Instructor Jo Jung-sik Under Investigation for Allegedly Buying Exam Questions

Renowned English instructor Jo Jung-sik is under investigation for allegedly purchasing mock exam questions from a current high school teacher, a revelation that has come to light recently. Jo is currently facing charges of violating the Improper Solicitation and Graft Act and obstruction of business, and has been transferred to the prosecution without detention. Despite the growing controversy, Jo is expected to attend scheduled broadcasting events as planned.

On the 10th, a media outlet reported that Jo, affiliated with Megastudy, was transferred to the prosecution on the 17th. According to the report, in November 2020, Jo approached a high school teacher, identified as A, who was a question setter for the Seoul Metropolitan Office of Education's national academic assessment and had experience writing EBS college entrance exam-related materials. Jo allegedly requested A to create monthly mock exam questions for high school seniors.

Jo reportedly offered 150,000 to 200,000 won per question and initially transferred 2 million won for 10 questions from A. The transactions continued, with Jo allegedly paying A a total of approximately 58 million won. It was found that A leaked not only two unpublished EBS college entrance exam-related books but also answer keys and explanations for the exams and mock assessments.

According to current Ministry of Education guidelines, it is strictly prohibited for current teachers to provide exam questions for academy materials to external educational companies. Violating this regulation can result in severe disciplinary actions such as dismissal or termination.

Sherlock, an investigative team, revealed that a total of 21 teachers were involved in transactions with Jo, all of whom had experience writing EBS materials or related to college entrance exams. The Board of Audit and Inspection stated that Jo admitted to the transactions, but Jo's legal representative refuted this, denying any acknowledgment of the allegations.

Channel A's entertainment program 'Please Take Care of My Grades - Teachers 2,' in which Jo appears, stated that they are aware of the allegations and are verifying the facts. They confirmed that Jo is expected to attend the scheduled round interview for 'Teachers 2' on the 13th, although as of the 11th, they have not been able to reach him.

Lee So-jung, TenAsia Reporter forusojung@tenasia.co.kr