With the 2025 College Scholastic Ability Test (CSAT) just around the corner, fans and industry watchers are keenly observing which 2006-born K-pop idols will participate. In recent years, the entertainment industry has seen a trend where idols temporarily pause their studies to focus on their burgeoning music careers.
NewJeans member HaeRin, born in May 2006, has decided not to take the CSAT this year. Despite having passed the high school equivalency exam, thus being eligible to sit for the test, HaeRin has chosen to prioritize her music activities. Similarly, NMIXX’s KyuJin, LE SSERAFIM’s Hong EunChae, and FIFTY FIFTY’s Saena have also opted to forego the exam to dedicate themselves to their musical endeavors. These idols are currently making significant waves in the music scene. Additionally, TWS member JiHoon, who is currently studying practical dance at Seoul’s Hanlim Arts High School, will not be taking the CSAT this year.
On the flip side, some idols have decided to take on the challenge of the CSAT. BOYNEXTDOOR’s WoonHak, AMPERS&ONE’s Makaya, and Kim SeungMo have committed to taking the exam. Both WoonHak and Kim SeungMo have been balancing their academic pursuits with their music careers in preparation for the test. Makaya, an Australian national, taking the CSAT has become a topic of interest. According to a representative from his agency, this decision reflects a commitment to focusing on his career.
Last year, the participation of 2005-born idols in the CSAT also drew significant attention. Former Kep1er member Kang YeSeo took the 2024 CSAT, actively engaging in the exam. Weeekly’s Zoa shared her experience of solving English practice questions on social media, relating to fellow test-takers while she continues her studies at Sungkyunkwan University as a class of 2024 student.
Furthermore, idols like Rocket Punch’s DaHyun, CSR’s Sua, tripleS’s Lee JiWoo and Gong YuBin, LIMELIGHT’s GaEun, LUN8’s Ji EunHo, and EPEX’s YeWang and Jeff headed to the exam halls. However, ENHYPEN’s Jay, ZEROBASEONE’s Park GunWook, TREASURE’s So Jung Hwan, Billlie’s SiYoon, and TRI.BE’s SongSun opted out last year.
The 2025 CSAT is scheduled to commence at 8:40 AM KST on November 14, with exam venues set up across the country. As the event approaches, the choices made by these idols highlight the diverse paths they take in managing their careers and education, leaving fans eager to see how these decisions will shape their futures.
