BTS’ SUGA donated 5 billion KRW to Severance Hospital to establish the ‘Min Yoongi Treatment Center’ for children with autism.
On June 23, Severance Hospital held a groundbreaking ceremony for the upcoming center, which will be built in collaboration with SUGA. A representative from the hospital stated, “We are establishing a specialized treatment center to support the care and social independence of patients with autism spectrum disorder, in collaboration with SUGA.”
SUGA’s involvement goes far beyond the donation. After meeting Professor Chun Geun-ah of Severance Hospital in November last year, he became aware of the challenges children with autism face and the urgent need for long-term, personalized care. Touched by their discussions, he pledged full support for the center’s creation.
From late 2023 to mid-2024, he volunteered over ten weekends, teaching music and joining therapy sessions. He also helped develop the ‘MIND’ program, blending writing and music to enhance emotional expression and social skills.
Professor Chun shared, “I sincerely thank Suga not only for his financial support but also for the genuine talent donation and volunteer work he has shown over the past several months. I was deeply impressed by Suga’s consistent sincerity, always approaching everything with a serious and thoughtful attitude. The ultimate goal of the Min Yoon Gi Treatment Center and the MIND program is to help children with autism spectrum disorder grow into independent individuals and healthy members of society through music, and, in doing so, to break down prejudices and improve awareness about autism spectrum disorder.”
SUGA said, “Through the past seven months of preparing programs and volunteering with Professor Chun Geun Ah, I have come to deeply realize that music can be a valuable channel for expressing one’s heart and communicating with the world.” He continued, “Being able to take part in the treatment process for children with autism spectrum disorder has been a great honor and happiness for me, and I will continue to do my best so that more children can become members of our society.”
Scheduled for completion by September, the center will further develop the MIND program, introduce a self-sustaining music therapy model, and train professionals in the field. It also plans to conduct research, publish findings, and create manuals for expanding the program.
Through this initiative, SUGA continues to prove that his influence goes far beyond the stage, leaving a meaningful legacy grounded in empathy, awareness, and change.
Written by Ranjana Singh
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