• Exceptional measures to ensure smooth university entrance exams
• Banks and transport schedules adjusted to avoid disruption

Some flights were temporarily halted, and working hours at banks and government offices were delayed to ease traffic, while parents prepared to pray for their children, as the country marked university entrance exam day in South Korea

The exam, locally known as the "Suneung," is a key requirement for admission to top universities and is seen as a gateway to social advancement, financial stability, and even a successful marriage

Given the significance of the day, the government implemented strict measures to ensure the exams run smoothly, while anxious students bid farewell to their parents, preparing for what many consider the most important day of their teenage lives

A nationwide 35-minute flight ban was enforced during the English listening test, except for emergencies, and banks and public offices were instructed to start work an hour later to reduce traffic congestion

Kim Min-jae, 18, said as he entered a test center in Seoul: I’m very nervous, but after all my preparation, I’ll do my best

He added that his parents were "even more anxious" than he was as he left home, making sure he was fully ready for the exam

Authorities also noted that 140 flights, including 75 international services, would be rescheduled between 1:05 p.m. and 1:40 p.m. due to the exam