Shinsegae Heiress Annie Pauses K-pop Career to Graduate from Columbia University
Chaebol heiress-turned-idol Annie is temporarily stepping back from ALLDAY PROJECT activities to complete her final semester at Columbia University, with graduation scheduled for May 2026.
THE BLACK LABEL confirmed on January 14 that the 24-year-old will attend Columbia's spring semester beginning January 20, focusing primarily on earning her Art History and Visual Arts degree. Annie personally addressed fans through the group's communication platform after news broke unexpectedly.
"I was told early last year that I couldn't extend my leave of absence any further," Annie explained. She'd already discussed the decision with fellow members and the agency before going public. "I earned a lot of credits earlier, so I'll graduate after completing just one more semester."
The idol asked fans for patience during the three-and-a-half month period until early May when the semester ends. "I'll work hard at school while also doing music production in the US," she promised. "I'll communicate often, so don't worry too much."
Balancing Two Worlds
Unlike a complete hiatus, Annie will participate in select overseas schedules including potential fan events while based in New York. THE BLACK LABEL emphasized she'll continue songwriting and maintain flexible participation in both group and solo activities.
"Even while Annie focuses on her studies, she will still fulfill any overseas schedules when possible," the agency stated. "Please understand this time as a preparation period for the next album."
Annie's path to becoming an idol required extraordinary commitment. As the eldest daughter of Shinsegae Co. chair Chung Yoo Kyung and granddaughter of Shinsegae Group chair Lee Myung Hee, she spent 10 years convincing her family to pursue entertainment. Her family's condition was clear: gain admission to an Ivy League university first. Columbia's acceptance allowed her to finally debut as Korea's first chaebol heir in K-pop.
Group Activities Continue
ALLDAY PROJECT will operate as a four-member unit during Annie's absence. Tarzzan, Bailey Sok, Woochan, and Youngseo are focusing on music production for upcoming releases while pursuing individual projects.
Tarzzan recently released solo track "MEDUSA" on January 12, showcasing a darker musical direction with sharp synth sounds. THE BLACK LABEL also revealed he's scheduled to appear on a variety show produced by renowned PD Na Young-seok, expected to premiere in the first half of 2026.
The co-ed group debuted on June 23, 2025, under producer Teddy's THE BLACK LABEL with single album "Famous." The track became the fastest fifth-generation debut song to reach #1 on MelOn, achieving the milestone in just three days. They secured their first music show win 10 days after debut on M Countdown.
ALLDAY PROJECT released their first EP in December 2025 featuring diverse tracks including unit songs and solo work. The group has already earned a nomination for Best New Artist in K-Pop at the 2026 iHeartRadio Music Awards, just seven months after debut.
Columbia University's spring 2026 semester runs from January 20 through May 15, with final exams concluding the academic term. Annie is expected to return to full group activities after graduation in May.
