Korea National University of Arts (K-Arts) is under fire after claims surfaced on an online community alleging that the school admitted an applicant with a past Level 4 school violence disciplinary record for the 2026 academic year. The issue has quickly ignited debate over the fairness and rigor of student record verification at state-funded special-purpose universities.
According to a post uploaded recently by the victim’s side, they were told by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism (MCST) that “school violence records will only be reflected starting next year.” The post argues that this effectively means the applicant’s acceptance will remain valid for this year’s admissions cycle.
The victim, referred to as 'Student A,' was reportedly subjected to verbal and physical abuse by 'Student B,' who received a Level 4 disciplinary action—a formal penalty classified as “community service” under the Education Ministry’s school violence sanctions table. After 'A' posted about the incident on personal social media, both 'A' and another student who shared the post were sued for defamation. Both cases reportedly ended in suspended indictments.
The victim’s side expressed frustration, saying the perpetrator pursued additional legal action even after completing both the school violence process and criminal settlement, while the victim struggled to return to normal school life.
Concerns regarding K-Arts admissions have intensified, with critics arguing that a university operated with national funding should conduct stricter student record reviews. The victim’s side filed complaints with both K-Arts and the MCST, and the institutions have reportedly responded that the matter is “under investigation.”
Online reactions have been deeply critical, with comments such as: “Even if the perpetrator’s not in the acting department, they could still end up on stage or in front of an audience,” “This is something the public will judge later,” and “A Level 4 school violence penalty is not minor—why are admissions standards so lax?”
Others questioned the policy rollout, saying: “So it’s a free pass this year?” and “If the rule applies next year, it should be applied now. Delaying school violence penalties by a year makes no sense.”
A Level 4 disciplinary action is a mid-tier but formal sanction, typically resulting in a significant deduction in admissions scoring—about 50 points at national universities. Several universities, including Kyungpook National University and Kangwon National University, have recently rejected applicants whose school violence histories were confirmed. Beginning with the 2026 admissions cycle, all universities will be required to factor school violence records into evaluations.
Experts say the shift reflects a broader trend in Korean education toward valuing character alongside academic performance. They argue that skills-focused special-purpose universities should enforce even stricter standards, warning that delayed application of student record checks could lead to repeated controversies.
The victim’s side stated they will continue monitoring the situation and are considering additional actions, while emphasizing that the victim’s emotional recovery remains their top priority.
SEE ALSO: Korean cosmetic brand Tony Moly denies viral marketing allegations over child eyeliner video
SHARE
