Every year, a hushed stillness blankets South Korea as approximately 500,000 students prepare for the Suneung, an eight-hour university entrance exam regarded as one of the most challenging globally. On this pivotal day, life across the nation pauses: planes remain grounded, construction work ceases, and honking cars are a rarity. This year’s exam, held on Thursday, brought an unexpected distraction for students—an infectious pop song that has been deemed “forbidden.”
The catchy tune “APT,” performed by Blackpink’s Rosé and Bruno Mars, has surfaced as a significant concern among test-takers. Students worry that its memorable melody could infiltrate their thoughts during the exam, potentially compromising their concentration. One student expressed this anxiety to Yonhap News, highlighting the intense pressure they feel leading up to such a critical moment in their academic journey.
The implications of the Suneung are profound; it represents years of educational effort and decisively influences students' futures regarding university admissions and career paths.
In past years, other popular songs have also been labeled as earworms to avoid. Tracks like “Go Go” by BTS and “Ring Ding Dong” by SHINee have frequently been mentioned online as potential distractions for exam participants.
The day of Suneung is marked not just by silence but by meticulous planning to ensure a conducive environment for students. Authorities took various measures to facilitate smooth operations:
Shops and the stock market opened later than usual to alleviate traffic congestion.
Public transport schedules were adjusted, with additional trains put on standby to handle any unforeseen breakdowns.
Over 10,000 police officers were deployed across the country, some assigned to assist students in reaching their exam locations safely.
In an effort to minimize noise disruptions during crucial sections of the test—such as the 20-minute English listening portion—planes were grounded and transportation services were instructed to refrain from honking.
As South Korea continues its tradition of prioritizing education through events like the Suneung, societal pressures surrounding academic performance remain high. The collective focus on minimizing distractions reflects not only cultural values but also highlights the intense stakes involved in this examination process. In an ever-evolving educational landscape, one can only wonder how future generations will navigate their own paths toward success amid similar pressures.
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