K-Pop Idols You Didn’t Know Have Master’s Degrees — And Even a Few PhDs

When we think of K-pop idols, we usually picture dazzling visuals, flawless performances, and world tours. But behind the glamour, many stars have also quietly pursued higher education — balancing the demanding idol life with academic ambition. Some even went as far as earning master’s degrees, and in a few cases… PhDs.

From stage to lecture halls, these K-pop idols are redefining what it means to be multi-talented.

💡 TVXQ’s Changmin: The Idol with a PhD

Changmin isn't just one of the longest-running idols in K-pop — he’s also one of the most academically accomplished.

He completed his master’s degree at Inha University and is now the proud holder of a PhD. Talk about legendary status on and off stage.

🎨 BIGBANG’s G-Dragon & Taeyang: Art Meets Academia

G-Dragon earned his master’s degree from Sejong University, specializing in content and retail distribution, blending creativity with commerce.

Taeyang holds a postgraduate degree from Daejin University in performance and image production, perfectly aligned with his artistic image and branding.

✨ SHINee: The Most Academically Decorated Group?

All members of SHINee have pursued postgraduate studies — and their degrees are as diverse as their talents.

Onew majored in practical music.

The late Jonghyun and Taemin received advanced degrees in musical studies from Myongji University.

Key earned a master’s in culture and education content development from Woosuk University.

Minho completed a master’s degree in film acting, complementing his growing acting career.

🧠 EXO: From Stage to Grad School

Xiumin is currently pursuing a PhD at Catholic Kwangdong University.

Suho holds a master’s in culture management — fitting for EXO’s polished leader.

Baekhyun and D.O. earned MBAs, adding business savvy to their portfolios.

Chanyeol studied interior design at Inha University.

Chen specialized in advertisement media, a perfect match for his broad appeal.

🌍 BTS: Global Icons, Lifelong Learners

While all members of BTS have balanced education with their career, many have pursued postgraduate courses and MBA-equivalent programs, often through Cyber Universities in Korea. Their dedication to learning despite their global schedules has inspired millions of fans.

Namjoon, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, and Taehyung have completed Master of Business Administration (MBA) degrees in Advertising and Media from Hanyang Cyber University, after earning their Bachelor's degrees in Broadcasting and Entertainment from Global Cyber University. Jin graduated from Konkuk University with a Bachelor's in Film Studies and also pursued an MBA at Hanyang Cyber University. Jungkook graduated with a Bachelor's degree in 2022.

🌸 TWICE’s Tzuyu: A Promising Academic Path Ahead

While still early in her post-idol academic journey, Tzuyu of TWICE has expressed interest in continuing her education after years of idol success. Fans are watching closely to see what she’ll pursue next — and given her discipline, expectations are high. She obtained a master’s degree in applied psychology from Spain’s Miguel de Cervantes European University.

🎤 Brains and Brilliance: The New Standard in K-pop

These idols prove that education and entertainment aren’t mutually exclusive. Whether it’s business, music theory, media, or design, their academic paths enrich their artistry — and offer a new kind of role model for fans everywhere.

So the next time you stan your bias, just remember — they might be prepping for a lecture and a live show.

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