Human Resources Development Service of Korea Apologizes for AI-Assisted Cheating on Tax Accountant Exam, Launches Review of National Qualification Tests

Plans to file a complaint against the top-scoring candidate for obstruction of business

The Human Resources Development Service of Korea apologized for cheating involving the use of artificial intelligence (AI) devices during the tax accountant exam and said it would conduct a comprehensive review of all national qualification exams.

The Asia Business Daily DB

In a press release on November 15, the agency said, "We deeply apologize for failing to prevent cheating in our capacity as the exam administrator," adding, "We recognize the gravity of the matter."

The agency held an emergency management meeting attended by all executives at Grade 1 or higher and decided on follow-up measures. First, it plans to file a complaint against the top-scoring candidate in the tax accountant exam for obstruction of business and, in consultation with the relevant authorities, to expedite the process of revoking the candidate's final qualification.

The agency also decided to review all national qualification exams to check for similar cheating or other irregularities.

To prevent a recurrence, it will consider deploying more AI inspectors, inspecting all eyeglasses, and introducing radio-frequency detectors. It also plans to review the entire qualification testing system with the Ministry of Employment and Labor and draw up comprehensive measures.

The agency is also expected to discuss response measures at an emergency meeting chaired by the Vice Minister of Employment and Labor later on November 15.

Earlier, on November 13, the agency said it was reviewing the administration of the tax accountant exam following allegations of cheating. At the time, it said that interviews with four exam proctors had revealed no suspicious behavior or unusual circumstances.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.