Police investigate renowned Pansori singer, former school principal, for recruitment bribery

Police are investigating Wang Ki-cheol, a celebrated Pansori singer and former principal of the National Traditional Arts Middle and High School, for allegedly accepting bribes in exchange for teacher appointments. The Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency's Anti-Corruption Investigation Unit conducted searches of the school and Wang's residence on May 30th.

Wang is accused of receiving 100 million won (approximately $72,000 USD) from a candidate, identified as Mr. A, who was hired as a Pansori teacher for the 2025 academic year. The National Traditional Arts Middle and High School, which became a national institution in 2008, grants its teachers official civil servant status. Mr. A, who began teaching Pansori in January of last year, was suspended the day after the search warrant was executed.

The investigation is broadening to scrutinize the hiring process for other teachers appointed during the same period, as police seek to uncover any further instances of recruitment irregularities. Wang, who previously taught at Seoul National Gugak High School and performed with the National Changgeuk Company, became principal in 2017. He gained recognition as a master Pansori singer after winning the Presidential Award at the 27th National Folk Arts Contest in 2001.