Rejected by Oxford University in the UK...
"Learned a Lot"
Paek Kanghyun, who became known as a prodigy after appearing on SBS's "Genius Discovery Team," challenged himself to gain admission to the University of Oxford in the United Kingdom but ultimately did not make it past the final selection stage. He drew attention for applying to one of the world's top undergraduate programs at the age of just 12.
Paek Kanghyun, a gifted boy famous for an IQ of 204. SBS broadcast screen · Screenshot from Paek Kanghyun's YouTube channel
"Rejected by Oxford... But I Won't Stop"
On January 14, Paek announced on his YouTube channel "Paek Kanghyun," "Today was the announcement of the successful applicants for the Computer Science program at the University of Oxford, which I had been waiting for. Many people supported me, but unfortunately, I did not receive an offer." He continued, "I had high hopes, and I was so disappointed that I broke down in tears."
He added, "However, I will pick myself up and move forward. It was a meaningful challenge, and I learned a lot. I will not stop here and will try again. I am grateful to everyone who supported me."
Took the 'MAT' Last Year, Achieved High Scores
Previously, in September of last year, Paek made headlines when he announced his plan to apply to Oxford. At the time, he said, "I have been studying for the International A-Level exams. I received an A* (A star), the highest grade, in all four subjects: Mathematics, Further Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry," and revealed his report card. Paek explained that his grades placed him within the top 1%.
In fact, Paek took the Mathematics Admissions Test (MAT), which is required for admission to Oxford's Computer Science program, and was among around 400 out of approximately 1,600 applicants to be invited for an interview. The MAT is an entrance exam in mathematics administered by Oxford and several other UK universities for applicants to mathematics and related majors.
However, Paek's age became a barrier. According to the regulations of the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) in the UK, those under 13 are not eligible to register, and without a UCAS ID issued after registration, it is impossible to take the MAT or apply to the university. As a result, Paek had to directly contact UCAS and the Oxford admissions office via email and international calls to confirm the application process and receive assistance.
Born in 2012, Paek first gained recognition as a gifted child showing exceptional abilities in mathematics and language at the age of three, appearing on the SBS current affairs and culture program "Genius Discovery Team." He scored 204 on an IQ test and repeatedly skipped grades. In early 2023, he entered Seoul Science High School but dropped out after just one semester. At the time, Paek explained on his YouTube channel, "I didn't want to become a machine for solving problems. I wanted to pursue creative activities," sharing the reason for his decision to leave.
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