South Korea’s highly competitive College Scholastic Ability Test (CSAT) is a high-stakes exam that shapes the academic future. It is common for K-pop idols to skip college entrance exams to prioritize their music career
NewJeans’ Haerin, LE SSERAFIM’s Eunchae, TWS’ Jihoon, and FIFTY FIFTY’s Hana, NMIXX’s Kyujin are among those opting out of this year’s CSAT.
Previously, it was reported that Haerin from NewJeans would skip the exam to focus on group activities and musical endeavors.
On the day of the exam (November 14), Jihoon will perform with TWS at Japan’s “Best Hit Song Festival.” Additionally, he is occupied with comeback promotions as TWS is releasing their debut single album “Last Bell” on November 25.
Meanwhile, Hana is preparing for FIFTY FIFTY’s US tour after the group’s re-debut in September. The tour kicks off on November 27 with a show in San Francisco followed by LA on November 29.
Joining the list of K-pop idols skipping the CSAT are ALL(H)OURS’ Hyunbin, tripleS’ Park Shion, YOUNG POSSE’s Jiana, and RESCENE’s Liv.
On the contrary, several K-pop idols will be taking the college entrance exam this year including
- BOYNEXTDOOR’s Woonhak
- AMPERS&ONE Makaya and Kim Seungmo
- EVNNE Park Ji Hoo
- 82MAJOR’s Kim Do Gyun
- Jeon Yu Jin
- Actress Gal So Won
The music industry is seeing a surge in K-pop idols skipping the CSAT to focus on their music careers, especially with the busy year-end season approaching.
Since there are several award shows and music festivals lined up, it is hard for them to focus on their studies and choose music careers instead.
Officials revealed that idol group members rarely take the CSAT, as their music careers take priority, especially in the early stages after debut.