BABYMONSTER’s Asa is facing backlash after saying she only graduated kindergarten during a recent Running Man appearance.
The controversy began when Asa revealed, “It has been six years since I came to Korea. I only graduated from Kindergarten. I am a Kindergarten graduate.” Her comment sparked worries about her education and whether dropping out was normal to pursue K-pop.
Soon after, Asa posted a clarification addressing the uproar. She explained her kindergarten comment was a joke, not her full educational background.
“I think some people were surprised hearing me say ‘Kindergarten graduate’ on the show. I started training with the dream of becoming an artist since elementary school. So, I was always going back and forth between school and practice. That’s why it felt like the only time I actuallly fully attended school was in kindergarten.
I wanted to say it in a funny way, but since I talked so briefly, I don’t think I explained it well.
I realized once again that I’m still inexperienced and have a lot to learn.”
— Asa
Despite her explanation, fans dug up a 2024 interview with CNN Brasil where Asa said she started dance school in her freshman year of high school.
“I joined a dance school during my first year of junior high school, and that’s when I felt the joy of listening to music and developing a passion for dancing.”
— Asa, CNN Brasil 2024
Plus, during the same Running Man episode, Asa confirmed she is still a high school student, even joking she’s older than typical high schoolers.
Fans are now treating this as a case of miscommunication rather than a literal dropout story. The “kindergarten graduate” phrase appears to be a humorous exaggeration lost in translation.
The situation is still gaining traction as fans continue discussing Asa’s education and idol training balance. No further official statements have been made.
