'With Mask' Students Preparing for Suneung, How to Choose Comfortable Masks for Studying

Survey on Mask Usability Among 200 Examinees and Parents
'Safety' and 'Comfortable Breathing' Identified as Key Features

'Airdays KF94 Slim Fit' mask. Photo by DW Bio

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Heeyoon] With mask-wearing still mandatory for test-takers this year, attention is focusing on masks optimized for students as the College Scholastic Ability Test (CSAT) day approaches in three weeks.

On the 31st, biohealthcare company DW Bio conducted a 'Mask Usability Evaluation for Test-Takers' survey targeting 100 high school students from grades 1 to 3 and 100 parents, totaling 200 participants, and the results revealed that the most important mask element for test-takers was the 'Safety Certification Mark,' and the most valued function was 'comfortable breathing.'

The most important factor for test-takers when purchasing masks was 'KF94 Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) certification,' accounting for 25%. This was followed by 'design, color, and appearance when worn' at 12%, and 'products known for being thin or lightweight' at 11%.

Regarding functional aspects, 54% answered that 'not feeling suffocated while breathing' was the most important consideration. Next, 'comfortable fit' and 'design, color, and appearance when worn' were each considered important by 6% of respondents.

Regarding how test-takers purchase masks, 89% reported that they do not buy masks themselves. All respondents who do not purchase masks directly said they use masks bought by their parents, confirming that the purchasing influence of parents in their 30s to 50s significantly affects the mask market.

When asked about the main factors parents consider when buying masks for their children, they, like the test-takers, prioritized 'KF94 MFDS certification' (28%). This was followed by 'products somewhat more expensive than average but of superior quality' at 20%, 'domestically produced products' (17%), and 'products known for being thin and lightweight' (10%). Compared to test-takers, who also rated external factors highly, parents appear to place greater importance on product quality.

A DW Bio representative stated, "The CSAT is a long endurance battle starting at 8:40 a.m. and lasting until as late as 5:45 p.m., and since masks must be worn throughout the exam, it is important to wear masks during all mock exams, including listening tests, timed to match the actual exam duration to build real test experience." They added, "The 'AirDays KF94 Slim Fit' mask, favored by students for its comfortable breathing, will be promoted with supportive designs for test-takers and mileage events to encourage students."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.