"If you want to debut, get accepted to an Ivy League school."
Annie (real name Moon Seo-yoon), a member of the group 'All Day Project', is returning to Columbia University in the U.S. and is set to hunt for the 'two rabbits' of academics and singing activities. With her background as the granddaughter of the Shinsegae Group, her narrative of proving herself through academics for her debut is once again drawing attention.
Her agency The Black Label announced on the 14th, "Annie will return to Columbia University for the Spring 2026 semester and will focus on her studies for the time being." Currently majoring in Art History and Visual Arts, Annie plans to stay in the U.S. until the semester ends in May, concentrating on her school life.
Even during her stay in the U.S., she will not sever ties with her fans. While prioritizing her studies, she will continue to communicate by fulfilling some scheduled official events, such as fan signings. During this period, the other members of All Day Project will focus on individual activities and music projects to strengthen their foundation.
Annie is the granddaughter of Shinsegae Group's Chairman Lee Myung-hee and the daughter of Chairman Chung Yoo-kyung. The unusual challenge of a chaebol child to become an idol garnered significant attention even before her debut, but the process was not smooth.
According to a released documentary, Chairman Chung Yoo-kyung and her family initially strongly opposed her entry into the entertainment industry. However, Annie's determination for her dream was firm, and eventually, Chairman Chung set a high condition of "acceptance to an Ivy League university." In response, Annie dedicated herself to studying, sacrificing her sleep time, and ultimately secured her acceptance to Columbia University, gaining her family's support.
Beyond the label of 'chaebol idol', Annie has carved her own path through hard work and recently expressed her deep affection for her activities through a fan platform, stating, "I really made the right choice in taking this path." The industry is paying close attention to her bold steps, as she vows not to miss out on either academics or the stage.
