A top scorer in South Korea’s certified tax accountant qualification examination admits he cheated using generative AI and a camera, reversing earlier denials after unusual results triggered public scrutiny. Han Won-seok, who initially rejected claims he used AI-enabled equipment, later tells his lawyer’s YouTube channel that he “cheated” and apologises for harm caused by his wrongdoing.
Han’s marks drew attention because he scored extremely high on both stages of the exam, including near-perfect performance in the first-stage multiple-choice test and the highest overall results. The controversy began after observers said the first-stage score was close to impossible without assistance, leading to online speculation. Several outlets describe how experts and professionals discussed possible methods, including the idea of AI smart glasses, before Han clarified his approach.
While the reports largely agree on the admission and the broad details of Han’s scores and alleged tools, the framing differs by outlet. Some articles highlight the act of turning himself in alongside the admission, while others focus more on his reversing his stance following scrutiny over his unusually high performance.