Out of 48,000 candidates who took the EPS TOPIK exam for manufacturing work in South Korea, only 5,540 passed, with the highest score being a record 97.5 out of 100, according to exam takers.

Many candidates expressed disbelief at the high passing score. One exam taker said, "This year's passing score was incredibly tough. They raised the threshold by 2.5 points, making the cutoff 40 out of 40, which totals 100 points. To pass with 97.5 out of 100 is extremely challenging. With so many people taking the exam, it’s natural that more candidates didn’t make it."

A candidate from the Thaketa Township in Yangon Region shared his disappointment after failing with 92.5 points despite two years of preparation: "I spent over two years preparing and only got three answers wrong. In previous years, this score would’ve been enough to pass easily. But this year, they set such a high bar that only one mistake was allowed. It’s really hard to accept. I feel very sad, and I can only imagine how those who scored 95 must feel—missing by just one point. Now, we have to wait for the next exam."

Other candidates mentioned that the cost of attending the exam, including tuition, lodging, and meals, was high, especially for those who traveled from other regions. A candidate from Botahtaung Township commented that many people missed passing by just one point, making the situation even more difficult.

The first round of the EPS TOPIK exam for manufacturing work was held from June 3 to October 15 (including for latecomers), with 48,000 candidates, of whom 5,540 passed.

Successful candidates will proceed to the Skill Test, while the second round of exams is scheduled for early 2025, according to the Overseas Employment Agency.