'Ilta Gangsa' Jo Jung-sik Firmly Denies Exam Question Trading Allegations: 'I've Never Done Anything Shameful'

Introduction: The Scandal That Shook Korean Education

Did you know that Jo Jung-sik, one of Korea's most famous CSAT English instructors, is currently at the center of a heated controversy? Known as the 'Ilta Gangsa' or top instructor, Jo has gained celebrity status through various TV appearances and his influential role in the private education sector. Recently, accusations surfaced that he paid a current high school teacher tens of millions of won to obtain mock exam questions for the national CSAT. The scandal exploded when a 2023 CSAT English question was found to closely resemble material from Jo's own study guides, sparking debates about ethics and fairness in Korea's high-pressure education system.
What makes this issue even more sensational is the scale of the alleged transaction and the involvement of a public school teacher. The story quickly became headline news, with parents, students, and educators all weighing in on the implications for trust and transparency in the education sector.

Jo Jung-sik's Firm Response: 'I've Never Done Anything Shameful'

Jo Jung-sik hasn't shied away from the spotlight during this crisis. On June 26, he took to social media to address the allegations head-on, stating that he believes taking responsibility is part of living as a decent human being. Jo declared that he would not run or hide from the situation, and if any responsibility is proven, he will accept it fully. However, he also made it clear that he believes he has done nothing morally or legally wrong. Jo emphasized that he has never done anything shameful, especially to those who know him directly or indirectly.
His legal team has also denied the reports that he paid 58 million won (about $45,000) to a teacher for exam questions. They insist that Jo has always acted within the bounds of the law and educational ethics. Despite being sent to the prosecution on charges of violating the Anti-Graft Act and obstruction of business, Jo's stance remains unwavering.

The Role of Private Instructors in Korea's High-Stakes Exam Culture

In Korea, private instructors like Jo Jung-sik wield enormous influence. The CSAT (College Scholastic Ability Test) is a life-defining event for many students, determining university admissions and, by extension, future careers. As a result, families invest heavily in private education, and top instructors become celebrities in their own right. These 'Ilta Gangsa' often create their own study materials and mock exams, which are highly prized for their perceived accuracy and difficulty.
This culture of intense competition has created a market where the line between preparation and unfair advantage can sometimes blur. The recent allegations against Jo have brought renewed attention to the pressures faced by both students and educators, as well as the enormous financial stakes involved in private tutoring.

How the Korean Public and Media Are Reacting

The Korean public has been deeply divided over the Jo Jung-sik case. Some supporters argue that Jo is being unfairly targeted due to his prominence, while others believe the incident exposes deeper problems within the education system. Online forums and blogs are filled with heated debates, with many parents expressing concern about the integrity of the CSAT and the potential for similar scandals in the future.
Media outlets have published numerous articles analyzing the impact of the scandal, with some calling for stricter oversight of private education and others defending the role of star instructors. Naver and Tistory blogs are abuzz with personal stories, opinions, and even conspiracy theories, reflecting the intense interest and anxiety surrounding the case.

Cultural Insight: Why This Matters So Much in Korea

For overseas fans and observers, it's important to understand why this issue has struck such a nerve in Korea. The CSAT is more than just a test; it's a national event that shapes the lives of millions. Success on the exam is seen as a ticket to prestigious universities and social mobility. As a result, any hint of unfairness or corruption in the exam process is taken extremely seriously.
The scandal involving Jo Jung-sik taps into broader concerns about educational inequality, the commercialization of learning, and the relentless pressure on students. It also highlights the unique role that private instructors play in Korean society, where their influence can rival that of public institutions.

Legal Developments and Ongoing Investigation

As of June 13, 2025, the investigation into Jo Jung-sik's alleged involvement in exam question trading is still ongoing. Prosecutors are examining evidence and interviewing witnesses, while Jo continues to maintain his innocence. His legal representatives have stated that they will fully cooperate with the authorities and are confident that Jo will be cleared of all charges.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Education has announced plans to review regulations governing the relationship between public school teachers and private education providers. This could lead to new guidelines aimed at preventing similar incidents in the future.

Broader Implications: What Does This Mean for Korean Education?

The Jo Jung-sik scandal is more than just a personal drama; it has sparked a national conversation about the future of education in Korea. Many experts believe that the case highlights the need for greater transparency and accountability in both public and private education sectors. There are calls for reforms to ensure that all students have a fair shot at success, regardless of their access to private tutoring.
Some commentators have suggested that the scandal could lead to a decline in the influence of star instructors, while others argue that it will simply push the industry to become more discreet. Either way, the case has underscored the importance of ethics, trust, and integrity in education—a topic that resonates far beyond Korea's borders.

Current Status and Public Sentiment

As the investigation continues, Jo Jung-sik remains a polarizing figure. Some students and parents continue to support him, citing his contributions to English education and his consistent denial of wrongdoing. Others are more skeptical, demanding a thorough investigation and stricter rules to prevent future scandals.
Regardless of the outcome, the case has already had a profound impact on how Koreans view their education system and the people who shape it. The conversation about fairness, opportunity, and ethics in education is likely to continue for years to come.