Who holds university leaders accountable? Korea president's conviction puts institutional discipline under scrutiny

The Korea Educational Foundation is preparing disciplinary proceedings against its president after a Seoul court sentenced him to eight months in prison for sexually assaulting a student while he was working as a professor at another university in 2024.

According to Yonhap News on Oct 14, Seoul Central District Court Judge Kang Seong-jin handed down the prison sentence to the university president, identified only as A, and ordered him to complete 40 hours of sexual violence treatment. However, the court did not order his immediate detention.

A was accused of summoning a student in her twenties to a private location and sexually assaulting her in October 2024, when he was teaching at a different university.

In its ruling, the court considered the student's account credible because her testimony was specific and consistent.

The judge highlighted the abuse of the professor's position in the incident, stating, "The defendant, as a university professor, calling a student to a private location for such actions carries significant blame," adding that the victim likely experienced considerable shock.

The court also considered A's conduct after the alleged assault when determining the sentence.

It found that his defense team had attempted to present the victim as someone who fabricated the allegations to obtain financial compensation, causing her further harm. Her request for a severe punishment, citing the mental distress she had suffered, was also taken into consideration.

A was elected president of the Korea Educational Foundation on May 27. However, reports that he was facing trial over the sexual assault allegations prompted growing calls from the university community for him to step down.

Despite denying the allegations, A took office in July. The foundation's board suspended him from the position just one day after he assumed the presidency.

Following the court's decision, the foundation plans to begin formal disciplinary proceedings to determine the consequences for A. A university official said the board would convene a disciplinary committee meeting soon to consider the appropriate punishment and decide his future status.

The process to select a new president will begin after the disciplinary proceedings conclude. In the meantime, Acting President Kim Hyun-soo will oversee the university's operations.

Who holds university leaders accountable in India?

The case also raises questions about accountability for university leaders in India, where vice-chancellor appointments are governed by applicable university statutes and University Grants Commission (UGC) regulations.

While search-cum-selection committees assess candidates for leadership positions, disciplinary action against serving officials depends on the relevant institution's rules and governing authorities.

In cases involving sexual harassment, Internal Complaints Committees (ICCs), established under the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace Act, 2013, provide a mechanism to inquire into workplace complaints.

Their role is distinct from that of criminal courts, which determine criminal liability. The Korea University case highlights how judicial proceedings and internal disciplinary mechanisms can operate separately when allegations involve senior academic figures.

The Korea University Student Council, which has called for A's resignation, is also pressing the administration to respond promptly to the verdict.

Student Council President Ji Tae-hoon said, "We will closely monitor whether the university takes prompt action, such as dismissal, and implements responsible measures."