South Korea recently concluded its annual College Scholastic Ability Test (CSAT), known locally as Sunenung. This exam, a crucial step for securing admission to prestigious universities, saw nearly half a million high school seniors and graduates participating.
However, one candidate stood out, not for her grades but for her extraordinary determination.
Photo via News1
At 83 years of age, Lim Tae Soo was this year’s oldest test-taker. On Thursday, 14th November, she arrived at Hongik University Girls’ High School in Seoul’s Mapo District to sit for the examination, drawing significant attention and admiration.
A student at Ilsung Women’s Middle and High School, Lim walked into the exam centre accompanied by cheers from her supportive classmates. Her journey to this moment has been decades in the making. As a young girl, Lim dreamt of becoming a teacher, but her aspirations were cut short 70 years ago when her father fell ill, forcing her to leave school.
Life took its course—Lim married and became a mother to four children. She devoted herself to raising them and later extended her nurturing role to her three grandchildren. Only in her later years did she finally find the opportunity to focus on herself and her education. Determined to chase her long-held dreams, she returned to school.
Photo via News1
“I raised all my children and sent them to university. Now it’s my turn to study. I’m thoroughly enjoying the experience, even at this age. Learning brings me immense joy, and it’s incredibly rewarding despite being a late start,” Lim shared.
With plans to study elder care business at university after completing high school, Lim is embracing her newfound academic path with enthusiasm.
Her inspiring story has resonated with people around the globe, with many expressing their heartfelt support for her determination and wishing her success in achieving her dreams!
