IVE’s Leeseo Prioritizes Career, Will Not Take 2026 CSAT
IVE member Leeseo has decided to forgo the College Scholastic Ability Test (CSAT) in 2026, opting instead to concentrate on her burgeoning career. The decision, made after careful consideration, aligns with a growing trend among members of the popular K-pop group to prioritize professional commitments.
According to reports from Herald POP, Leeseo’s agency, Starship Entertainment, will fully support her choice regarding future educational pursuits. This follows similar decisions by fellow IVE members Jang Wonyoung and Liz, who have also chosen to focus on their careers rather than prepare for the highly competitive national exam.
The CSAT, a pivotal moment for South Korean students, determines university admissions. Leeseo’s decision reflects a shift in priorities for some young stars who have already achieved significant success in the entertainment industry. “I think this is a wise decision,” one online commenter noted, echoing a sentiment shared by many K-Netizens.
Concerns were also raised regarding potential disruptions caused by the presence of fans and media at the test center. “It could be a public nuisance having reporters and crazy fans coming to the test site to see them,” a user posted on Instiz. Others questioned the status of other IVE members, asking, “Has no one taken the test from IVE? Not sure if Gaeul has taken it…”
Leeseo debuted as part of IVE in 2021 and has quickly risen to prominence. The group recently concluded the Seoul portion of their world tour, demonstrating their growing international appeal. The decision to postpone, or potentially forgo, higher education allows Leeseo to capitalize on this momentum and further solidify her position within the competitive K-pop landscape.
This trend underscores the evolving landscape of career paths for young Korean entertainers, where immediate professional success often outweighs traditional academic pursuits. Starship Entertainment’s supportive stance signals a recognition of this changing dynamic and a commitment to fostering the individual ambitions of its artists.
