SUGA makes historic 5 billion won donation to establish Autism Treatment Center

SUGA of BTS has made a historic 5 billion won ($3.62 million USD) donation to Yonsei University’s Severance Hospital to establish the “Min Yoongi Treatment Center” for children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder. This is the largest donation ever made by an artist to the medical institution.

The specialized center, set to open in September 2025, will provide long-term treatment and support for autism spectrum disorder patients, including innovative music-based social skills training through the newly developed “MIND” program.

The MIND program is an acronym for:

• Music: Enhancing interaction and sensory experience through music.
• Interaction: Experience opportunities to form social relationships and communication.
• Network: Learning the process of naturally forming relationships through a community.
• Diversity: Learning about a society that respects individual diversity and gets along well with others.

SUGA collaborated closely with Professor Cheon Geun-ah, a pediatric psychiatry expert, over seven months to develop this comprehensive approach that combines traditional therapies with music therapy.

The center aims to help children with autism spectrum disorder develop independence and integrate into society while reducing stigma and improving disability awareness. SUGA’s involvement goes beyond financial support, as he actively participated in program development and volunteer activities, demonstrating his genuine commitment to mental health advocacy and supporting vulnerable youth.

Read the full article on IMBC here (in Korean).