Top South Korean Tax Accountant Scorer Admits to Using AI in Exam

Scepticism surrounding the exceptional performance of the top scorer on South Korea’s national exam for aspiring tax accountants turned into confirmed scandal this Sunday. The candidate admitted to using generative artificial intelligence to cheat during the qualification tests held earlier this year.

The incident has intensified scrutiny ahead of the annual national college entrance exam, which is scheduled for this Thursday. In South Korea, standardised tests play a decisive role in determining social mobility and career paths, making the integrity of these examinations a matter of national importance.

The candidate, who identified himself only by the surname Han, issued an apology on the YouTube channel of attorney Lee Don-ho. He stated clearly that he had cheated by using electronic devices and generative AI. He described his top score as not being the result of fair effort, acknowledging the irregularity in his success.

Han ranked first in both the April and July rounds of the qualification exam. His lawyer revealed the specific method used to obtain answers. Han reportedly took photos of the exam questions using a microcamera and sent them to an AI tool. He then checked the provided answers on a smartphone while taking the test.

His performance in the first round drew particular attention due to its near-perfect nature. He scored 397.5 out of 400 points, missing only one question out of 160. This remarkable accuracy had initially led to accusations that he was using smart glasses, a claim he had previously denied.

During his video statement, Han appeared wearing a face mask. He confirmed that he had submitted a written confession to the Seoul police regarding the incident. The admission marked a significant development in a case that had been under speculation for months.

The Seoul metropolitan police agency confirmed the receipt of the written confession through the test taker’s lawyer earlier in the day. They stated that the case has been formally assigned to investigators for further review and handling.

The presidential office has expressed that it views the matter with great seriousness. A senior official told reporters on Sunday that the administration has been working diligently to prepare countermeasures, especially given the proximity of the college entrance exam. The official noted that reports of potential cheating in the certified public accountant exam were concerning.

An emergency meeting is scheduled to be convened later in the afternoon by the presidential chief of staff for policy to address the issue. The prime minister, Han Seong-sook, also acknowledged public concerns over AI-assisted cheating on Friday. Her office issued a statement promising that the government would prepare thoroughly and closely oversee the college entrance exam process to ensure it is conducted fairly and stably until the very end.