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Star English instructor Jo Jung-sik, widely known as a top-tier “No.1 instructor,” has been referred to prosecutors after admitting to purchasing mock exam questions from current high school teachers, according to recent revelations.

On June 10, investigative outlet Sherlock reported that South Korea’s Board of Audit and Inspection uncovered Jo’s transactions with 21 current teachers, from whom he bought questions for privately produced mock exams targeting high school seniors. Jo was referred to the prosecution without detention on May 17 for alleged violations of the Anti-Graft Act.

One of the key figures in the case, a high school teacher identified as “Mr. A,” reportedly received ₩58 million from Jo in exchange for exam content. Between 2018 and 2023, Mr. A allegedly earned a total of ₩238 million by selling similar materials to 11 different private education institutions.

Mr. A, a writer for EBS textbooks, was also found to have leaked unreleased EBS materials that were part of the official college entrance exam (CSAT) linkage program — a particularly serious offense given the content had not yet been made public.

Jo admitted to the allegations during the audit, explaining that he believed teachers with EBS writing experience could produce high-quality, CSAT-relevant questions. “I assumed these teachers would sell their materials to higher-paying private institutions, so I offered above-market rates,” he reportedly stated.

Public backlash has been swift and severe. Many online users criticized Jo not just for using existing questions, but for accessing and distributing unreleased test-linked materials, calling it a serious blow to the integrity of public education. Comments included, “This is a collapse of the education system,” “Wasn’t he the guy on that TV show?” and “There’s likely more to be uncovered.”

Jo is currently appearing on Channel A’s educational reality show “Please Take Care of My Grades: Teachers Season 2,” where he serves as an English mentor to students. With his next scheduled interview set for June 13, the show's producers stated they are "verifying the facts" but confirmed there is "no change to the current schedule."