Yes it happens everywhere, but some places are more susceptible to obvious graft and cheating than others. In the USA, for example, it would be hard to argue that there isn't a certain culture of graft in government... but it's mostly a legally acceptable variety called "campaign contributions." Unfortunately the people making the rules have made a system where they're exempt many of them.
The thing is, what might not be unexpected in certain levels in North American society permeates more levels in some others. In many places you simply can't do business without bribes. In China, it's pretty much endemic to the culture in some areas.
My ex used to share stories, one of which stuck with me: she wanted to transfer her son to another school after moving.
When she went in to register him, she was told "sorry, we're full and not accepting more students."
As she's leaving, another guy comes up, drops a red envelope (presumably containing some cash) with the school secretary, and asks for the same thing. He's told "sure, we'll fit him"