BTS member Suga (real name Min Yoon-gi) has taken a major step in supporting children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) by establishing the Min Yoongi Center at Severance Hospital in Seoul.
The center officially opened in September 2025 with a donation of 5 billion KRW (~$3.56 million), marking one of the largest celebrity contributions to Yonsei University’s Health System.
Motivation Behind the Center
Suga’s dedication to pediatric mental health has been long-standing. After learning about the shortage of specialized care for autistic individuals through conversations with Professor Cheon Keun-ah, a child psychiatry expert, Suga decided to fund a facility that provides long-term, individualized care tailored to patients’ needs.
Facilities and Programs
The Min Yoongi Center offers:
- Therapy rooms for speech and behavioral therapy
- Group therapy rooms equipped with soundproofing and audio systems for music and social skills programs
- A waiting area featuring artwork by Lee Kyu-jae, a visual artist on the autism spectrum
- A key program, “MIND” (Music, Interaction, Network, Diversity), was developed by Suga and Professor Cheon. Suga previously volunteered in music-based activities for children with autism, integrating his artistic expertise into therapy.
The center also provides personalized integrated therapy delivered by a multidisciplinary team, including:
- Child psychiatrists
- Music therapists
- Speech and behavioral therapists
- Clinical psychologists
Future expansions plan to include art, physical education, and other creative therapies, professional training, and clinical research.
Significance
The Min Yoongi Center addresses a critical gap in South Korea’s healthcare system for autistic children.
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By combining music, therapy, and creative programs, Suga is not only improving access to care but also raising awareness about neurodiversity.
The facility exemplifies how celebrity influence can drive social impact and innovation in healthcare.
Looking Ahead
Severance Hospital plans to relocate and expand the center to meet growing demand, further professionalizing autism care.
Suga’s initiative demonstrates the potential of integrating arts and therapy for holistic development, setting a benchmark for future philanthropic efforts in South Korea.
