INTERNATIONAL – Renowned South Korean rapper G-Dragon recently made headlines after it was announced that he would take on the role of a visiting professor at the Korea Advanced Institute of Science & Technology (KAIST). G-Dragon, whose real name is Kwon Ji-yong, will teach leadership under the mechanical engineering department and organize cultural events for students. While the move from a music career to academia might raise some eyebrows, G-Dragon’s impressive educational background proves he is well-equipped for the position, joining a list of K-pop idols who are academically inclined.
G-Dragon: A Multi-Talented Scholar
In 2008, G-Dragon enrolled at Kyunghee University to study postmodern music. However, his burgeoning career with BigBang forced him to drop out. Determined to continue his education, he later joined Gukje Cyber University in 2009, where he graduated with a bachelor’s degree in leisure sports studies in 2013. But G-Dragon didn’t stop there. That same year, he enrolled at Sejong University to pursue a postgraduate degree in content and retail distribution. In 2016, he earned a master’s degree, and he had plans to pursue a doctoral degree before his mandatory military enlistment put those ambitions on hold.
Tablo: From Stanford to Epik High
Epik High’s Tablo (real name Daniel Lee) is another K-pop star with a stellar academic background. In 1998, he enrolled at Stanford University, one of the most prestigious institutions in the United States. In less than four years, he earned both a bachelor’s degree in English literature and a master’s degree in creative writing. His time at Stanford was marked by academic achievements, including writing a book and winning a creative writing award. However, in 2010, Tablo faced a public scandal when his academic credentials were questioned due to suspicions surrounding the speed at which he completed his degrees. The backlash prompted him to publicly visit Stanford and present his transcripts, putting the rumors to rest.
Park Kyung: A Genius in Mensa
Block B’s Park Kyung is known for being one of the smartest K-pop idols. He holds the distinction of being the first K-pop star to join Mensa International, the high IQ society. In an episode of the variety show Problematic Men, he revealed his impressive IQ of 156, placing him in the top 1% globally. Park Kyung’s exceptional intellect has earned him recognition beyond his music career, demonstrating that K-pop idols can be academically gifted as well.
Changmin: Dual Degrees and Higher Education
TVXQ’s Changmin is another K-pop idol who values education. Not only does he hold a bachelor’s degree in postmodern music from Kyunghee University, but he also earned another degree in film and arts from Konkuk University. His academic journey didn’t stop there—he pursued a master’s degree and Ph.D. at Inha University, a highly regarded institution in South Korea.
Kyuhyun: A Math Prodigy
Super Junior’s Kyuhyun is known for his musical talents, but his academic achievements in mathematics are equally impressive. In 2004, he won the first prize at the National Math Olympiad and received the Ministry of Science and Technology Award. Kyuhyun’s math skills were so advanced that he was placed in a special class for gifted students, despite not excelling in other subjects. He later enrolled at Kyunghee University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in postmodern music and a master’s degree in 2016.
Wendy: An Honor Student Turned Superstar
Red Velvet’s Wendy may be known for her powerful vocals, but she also has a strong academic background. While attending Shattuck-St. Mary’s School in Minnesota, USA, she consistently achieved high GPA scores. Wendy’s academic excellence earned her multiple accolades, including being named the best all-around student in 2009 and receiving the prestigious President’s Award for Educational Excellence from then-U.S. President Barack Obama.
Read more: SM Entertainment Opens Global Audition for New Girl Group
Key: A Scholar with a Passion for Culture
SHINee’s Key is another idol with impressive academic credentials. He holds a bachelor’s degree in film and musicals, as well as a master’s degree in culture and education content development. In 2016, his master’s thesis was presented at the International Conference on New Horizons in Education in Vienna, Austria. Key has also lectured at schools across South Korea, discussing the connection between styling and self-esteem.
These K-pop idols prove that talent isn’t just limited to the stage—they are also academically accomplished individuals with a thirst for knowledge and education. Whether it’s G-Dragon’s leadership lessons at KAIST or Kyuhyun’s math genius, these idols have shown that K-pop stars can excel both in entertainment and academia, inspiring fans around the world to pursue their passions with equal determination.
