The day of the 2026 college scholastic ability test (CSAT) has dawned.
Today (the 13th), when examinees nationwide will pour their efforts onto the test papers, the morning air filled with a mix of nervousness and excitement is filling test sites across the country.
As in previous years, idol star examinees who draw public attention are also heading to exam halls. Those who have been actively performing at home and abroad are temporarily stepping away from the stage and, with the same mindset as their peers, are taking the CSAT.
This year's CSAT will be taken by Han Yujin of ZEROBASEONE, Kyungmin of TWS, Donghyun of KickFlip, Yu Sarang of IZNAA, and Park Hayuchan of The Wind. Despite their busy schedules, they have not neglected their studies and are taking the last exam of their teenage years.
However, to minimize disruption to other examinees, most members plan to enter the exam quietly and privately.
KickFlip's Donghyun told OSEN, "First, I want to share support with the examinees who are taking the CSAT with me this year. You must have gone through a lot emotionally before the exam, and I hope everyone gets good results. I will also do my best on the test. Let's go!" he said, expressing his feelings ahead of the CSAT.
Kyungmin also said, "As a fellow examinee, I'm nervous and excited. Keep your condition stable until the end, and make sure to prepare your admission ticket and supplies in advance."
Meanwhile, most idols chose not to take the CSAT and to focus on their primary careers. IVE's Lee Seo, ILLIT's Wonhee, BABYMONSTER's Ahyeon and Rami, Hearts2Hearts' Yuha and Stella, Miyao's Narin, KATSEYE's Yoonchae, IZNAA's Choi Jeong-eun, tripleS' Kim Sumin, Kim Chaewon, Jeong Hayeon, Jeong Hyerin, Youngpiece's Doeun, ARC's Choi Han, Doha, AtHeart's Arin and Bom, and BIBIUP's Suyeon did not take the exam and instead cheered for friends facing an important crossroads in life.
Starship Entertainment, Lee Seo's agency, said, "After long discussions regarding Lee Seo taking the CSAT, the decision was made according to her current wish to focus on activities," and added, "Depending on the artist's future opinion, attending university will be considered when she can concentrate on it later while continuing activities."
Meanwhile, the 2026 CSAT held today will take place from 8:40 a.m. to 5:45 p.m. at 1,310 test sites nationwide. A total of 554,174 people are taking the CSAT this year.
[Photo] OSEN DB
[OSEN]