Father Gifts 5 Million Won to Daughter After 'Hell CSAT'

A Father’s Support Amidst the Challenges of the 2026 CSAT

The 2026 College Scholastic Ability Test (CSAT) has once again captured public attention, not just for its difficulty but also for a touching story that highlights the emotional support a father provided to his daughter after she felt she underperformed. This heartwarming moment has resonated with many, showcasing the power of parental encouragement in times of stress and uncertainty.

The story gained traction when a post titled “I messed up the CSAT, but look at my dad’s KakaoTalk” was shared on an online community. The author, who identified as a test-taker, expressed deep admiration for her father, stating, “I want to marry someone like my dad.” She accompanied her message with a screenshot of a comforting note from her father, which quickly went viral.

In the message, the father conveyed a sense of unwavering support and love. He wrote, “My precious youngest daughter, don’t be discouraged by poor results. The reason I work hard is for you and your sister, and my ability is still strong.” He continued, “I can provide enough for both of my princesses to live comfortably, so rely on Dad and move forward. If you want to retake the CSAT, do it. Travel, skip college, or pursue anything you desire—it’s all fine.”

The father also explained the financial gesture of giving his daughter 5,000,000 Korean won, stating, “Today’s world offers many experiences I couldn’t have in my youth. I hope my daughters explore them and share their stories with me.” His words reflected a deep understanding of the changing world and a desire to empower his children to make their own choices.

He added a cautionary note about his daughter’s older sister, who had invested in stocks and lost half of her investment. “So I hope you don’t make the same mistake,” he said, showing a balance between support and guidance.

Public Reaction and Emotional Impact

The post received an overwhelming response from netizens, many of whom were moved by the father’s words. Comments such as “Having a dad like that is luckier than scoring full marks” and “How could anyone fail under such a father’s support?” highlighted the widespread admiration for the father’s approach. Others expressed that the daughters must have grown up in a nurturing environment, thanks to their father’s influence.

This story not only brought attention to the emotional challenges faced by students during the CSAT but also emphasized the importance of family support in academic and personal growth.

The 2026 CSAT: A More Difficult Exam

In addition to the emotional narratives, the 2026 CSAT itself has been noted for its increased difficulty compared to previous years. The exam featured high-difficulty questions in Korean, Math, and English, designed to differentiate top scorers. The Korean section, in particular, saw a significant rise in the complexity of the reading portion.

While the highest standard score is not expected to reach the 150 points seen in the 2024 CSAT, it is projected to exceed the 2025 scores, which were 136 points for Speech and Writing and 139 points for Language and Media. This increase in difficulty underscores the growing pressure on students and the need for comprehensive preparation.

Conclusion

The 2026 CSAT has not only tested students’ academic abilities but also served as a platform for stories of resilience and support. The father’s gesture exemplifies the profound impact that emotional and financial support can have on a child’s journey. As the exam results are finalized, the focus remains on the broader implications of education, family dynamics, and the importance of fostering confidence and independence in young individuals.