Jo Jung-sik Faces Broadcast Suspension Amid Exam Question Scandal: 'How Do Adults' 10th Anniversary Special Appearance Canceled

Jo Jung-sik’s Meteoric Rise and Sudden Fall

Did you know Jo Jung-sik was once considered the face of English education in Korea? As a lead instructor at Megastudy and a familiar presence on Channel A’s ‘Teachers’ series, Jo built a reputation for pinpoint exam predictions and charismatic lectures. But in June 2025, his career hit a major roadblock when allegations surfaced that he had purchased mock exam questions from current high school teachers, sparking one of the biggest scandals in Korean private education history. The news sent shockwaves through both the education sector and his massive student fanbase, who had long admired his teaching style and success story.
Jo’s story is a classic case of how quickly public perception can turn, especially in Korea’s hyper-competitive education market, where the line between innovation and controversy is razor-thin. His journey from celebrated educator to embattled figure is now a cautionary tale for both teachers and students.

The Allegations: What Really Happened?

So, what exactly is Jo Jung-sik accused of? According to multiple investigative reports and official statements, Jo allegedly paid over 58 million won (about $42,000) to a current high school teacher, referred to as Teacher A, in exchange for mock exam questions between 2018 and 2023. The teacher reportedly earned a total of 238 million won from similar transactions with various academies, with Jo’s share being a significant portion.
Investigators claim that Jo approached a network of 21 teachers, many of whom had experience writing for EBS (Korea’s Educational Broadcasting System) and national assessments. These teachers allegedly provided not just questions, but also answer keys and explanations, some of which closely mirrored real College Scholastic Ability Test (CSAT) items. The controversy exploded when students noticed that a passage in Jo’s private mock exam was nearly identical to one on the 2023 CSAT, leading to widespread speculation about insider information.
For foreign fans, it’s important to understand the immense pressure and value placed on CSAT preparation in Korea. The scandal struck a nerve because it called into question the fairness of the entire university entrance process.

Legal Battle and Jo Jung-sik’s Response

Jo Jung-sik and his legal team have firmly denied all allegations. They argue that Jo never directly paid the teacher in question and that any transactions were either misrepresented or misunderstood. His lawyers released a statement asserting that Jo is ‘clearly innocent of all charges’ and that the ongoing investigation will ultimately clear his name.
Despite the mounting media scrutiny, Jo’s supporters point to the lack of a final judicial decision and caution against a rush to judgment. Meanwhile, critics argue that even the appearance of impropriety damages public trust in private education. The legal process is ongoing, and as of June 2025, no verdict has been reached. The case highlights the unique legal landscape in Korea, where the Improper Solicitation and Graft Act (Kim Young-ran Law) strictly prohibits teachers from sharing exam materials with outside parties, especially for financial gain.

Impact on Broadcasting and the Korean Edutainment Industry

Jo’s scandal had immediate consequences for his media career. He was scheduled to appear on tvN’s ‘How Do Adults’ 10th Anniversary Special, a high-profile event set for July 1, 2025. However, the network abruptly canceled his appearance, citing ‘internal circumstances’ but widely believed to be a direct response to the ongoing investigation.
The fallout extended to Channel A’s ‘Teachers 2,’ where Jo was a regular panelist. He withdrew from scheduled interviews and his future on the program remains uncertain. The controversy has reignited debate about the role of celebrity instructors in Korean education and the responsibilities of broadcasters when their stars face legal or ethical questions.
For international fans, this episode offers a glimpse into how intertwined education and entertainment have become in Korea, and how quickly a scandal can disrupt even the most carefully managed public images.

Cultural Context: Why This Scandal Matters in Korea

Why did Jo Jung-sik’s alleged actions spark such intense debate? In Korea, academic success is often seen as the key to social mobility, and the CSAT is the ultimate gatekeeper. Private academies (hagwons) and star instructors wield enormous influence, with some teachers achieving near-celebrity status. The idea that insider information could be bought and sold undermines the meritocratic ideals many parents and students hold dear.
This scandal also shines a light on the so-called ‘shadow market’ for exam materials, where the boundaries between legal and illegal practices are sometimes blurred. It has prompted calls for stricter oversight of both public school teachers and private education companies, as well as renewed scrutiny of the culture of intense competition that drives such high stakes.

Community and Fandom Reactions: Support, Skepticism, and Satire

How have fans and the broader community responded? Online, reactions have been mixed and passionate. Some loyal students and parents have rallied behind Jo, citing his years of dedication and the absence of a final court ruling. Others feel betrayed, arguing that his alleged actions gave unfair advantages to those who could afford his courses.
On Naver and Tistory blogs, discussions range from detailed analyses of the legal issues to personal stories about the pressures of Korean education. Some bloggers have even called for a boycott of Megastudy and similar academies, while others use the controversy as a springboard for broader critiques of the education system. Satirical memes and parody posts have also proliferated, reflecting the uniquely Korean blend of humor and social commentary.
For foreign readers, it’s fascinating to see how fandom in Korea extends beyond K-pop and dramas to include educators, and how quickly that support can shift when controversy arises.

What’s Next for Jo Jung-sik and Korean Education?

As of June 13, 2025, Jo Jung-sik remains under investigation, with legal proceedings ongoing and his broadcast activities largely suspended. The outcome of his case could set important precedents for both the private education industry and the regulation of star instructors in Korea.
Regardless of the verdict, the scandal has already prompted soul-searching within the education community and among fans. Will this lead to lasting reforms, or will the industry simply move on to the next big name? Only time will tell, but one thing is clear: the Jo Jung-sik case has become a defining moment in the ongoing debate over ethics, fairness, and celebrity in Korean education.