BTS Suga Makes Unprecedented 5 Billion Won Donation To Support Children With Autism
BTS member Suga (Min Yoongi) has made headlines for an unprecedented donation aimed at supporting children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
On June 23, Severance Hospital announced that it will establish a specialized treatment center in collaboration with Suga to aid the treatment and social integration of individuals with ASD. The hospital held a groundbreaking ceremony for the “Min Yoongi Treatment Center,” which will offer speech, psychological, and behavioral therapy for young patients, alongside research-based programs to support mental health.
Even during his time with BTS, Suga has consistently shown an interest in mental health, especially youth depression. He sought ways to use his talents in music to support others. In November 2023, he began communicating with Professor Chun Geun Ah, a renowned child psychiatrist at Severance. Through several meetings, Suga learned that short-term interventions were often insufficient and that long-term, personalized treatment was crucial for individuals with ASD. Moved by this insight, he pledged a 5 billion won [$3,639,939] donation to Severance to help build a dedicated treatment center—the largest artist donation in the hospital’s history.
Working with Professor Chun, Suga helped develop a music-based social skills training program called “MIND.” The acronym stands for:
- Music: Enhancing sensory experiences through music
- Interaction: Creating opportunities for social communication
- Network: Learning to build relationships within a community
- Diversity: Embracing individual differences in a group setting
Suga actively participated in program development from March to June this year. He spent weekends interacting with ASD children—playing guitar and other instruments to encourage emotional expression and cooperation. His guidance helped the children improve communication, emotional expression, and social skills. Notably, children who showed little reaction during standard therapy sessions responded positively to the music-based approach, even showing talent in playing instruments and engaging in group performances.
Professor Chun expressed deep gratitude, saying, “Suga didn’t just offer financial help—he gave his time, sincerity, and talent. His consistent, thoughtful involvement left a lasting impression.” She added that the center aims to empower children with ASD to grow as independent individuals and to reduce societal stigma about disabilities.
Suga commented, “Over the past seven months of working on this program with Professor Chun, I’ve truly felt how music can be a powerful tool for expressing emotions and connecting with the world. Being part of this journey was a gift, and I’ll continue to support these children so they can be part of society with pride.”
Source: (A)
