Woman takes 961 tries to get her learners and licence
Cha Sa-soon, a 68-year-old South Korean woman, made headlines for passing her written driver's licence exam on her 961st attempt.
After 949 tries over four years, Cha Sa-soon aced her written driver’s licence exam on the 950th attempt. At the age of 68, the resilient South Korean resident sat for her written exam for the last time.
Although her story is more than a decade old, Sa-soon’s story of perseverance is still inspiring many across the globe. In 2009, BBC News reported that she finally managed to get the 60 points (out of 100) required to pass the test.
Other reports say that Sa-soon rewrote the test every day, five times a week from April 2005 until she passed in 2009.
Over four years of rewriting, she spent 5 million won (about R62 231 today) on application fees.
In terms of the practical driving exam, she failed that 10 times. This brings her total attempts of earning her licence to 960. In 2010, at the age of 69, she passed her 11th attempt at the practical driving exam.
The Korea Times reported that Sa-soon wanted to get her licence so she could buy a vehicle to help her sell vegetables and other items.
Following her 775th failure, she made headlines.
She told Reuters: "I believe you can achieve your goal if you persistently pursue it. So don't give up your dream, like me. Be strong and do your best."
Did you get your licence on your first attempt? Answer our poll below:
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