K-Pop Idols Face College Entrance Exam Dilemma: To Take or Not to Take?

As the College Scholastic Ability Test (CSAT) approaches in South Korea, high school senior idols are making varied decisions regarding their participation. In the entertainment industry, pursuing higher education is increasingly seen as optional rather than mandatory.

Among the idols taking the CSAT this year are Han Yu-jin from ZEROBASEONE, Kyung-min from TOURS, and Dong-hyun from Kickflip. Last year, TOURS member Ji-hoon couldn't take the exam due to scheduling conflicts, but this year, Kyung-min, a high school senior, will be sitting for the test. ZEROBASEONE showed support for their youngest member, Han Yu-jin, in a video message, saying, "Yu-jin, you can do it, right? We hope our encouragement gives strength to all examinees, including Yu-jin. Fighting!"

On the other hand, several idols, including IVE's Lee Seo, ILY:1's Won-hee, and BABYMONSTER's Ah-hyun and Rami, have opted out of taking the exam. Starship Entertainment, Lee Seo's agency, explained, "After long discussions about Lee Seo's participation in the CSAT, we decided to focus on her activities as per her wishes."

November, the month of the CSAT, coincides with preparations for year-end performances, which are crucial opportunities for groups to make a lasting impression on the public. It appears that idols who are not taking the exam are prioritizing their careers over academics. IVE is on a rising trajectory as a leading girl group, while ILY:1, BABYMONSTER, TOURS, and Kickflip are establishing their presence in the music industry as rookie groups. The demanding nature of entertainment activities seems to have influenced their decision to skip the exam.

In the past, it was common for other group members to support their peers taking the CSAT by preparing lunchboxes, showcasing the group's camaraderie. However, with many idols debuting at a young age and the increasing demands of their schedules, balancing academics and entertainment has become challenging. As a result, scenes of idols heading to exam halls with their members' support have become rare, leaving some fans nostalgic.

Artists like IU and Jungkook have also chosen to focus on their careers rather than taking the CSAT. The decision to take the exam is now viewed more as a practical choice based on career demands rather than a mandatory step.

Kim Ji-won, TenAsia Reporter one@tenasia.co.kr