BTS’s Suga donates KWR 5 billion to launch autism treatment centre using music therapy
This contribution will fund the Min Yoongi Treatment centre, a facility dedicated to supporting children with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
BTS member Suga has made headlines with historic donation of KWR 5 billion (approximately USD 3.64 million) to Severance Hospital in Seoul. It stands as the largest single donation ever made by K-pop idol to a medical institution.
According to the reports, this contribution will fund the creation of the Min Yoongi Treatment centre, a facility dedicated to supporting children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
The centre will provide specialised therapies, including speech, psychological and behavioural treatments. Additionally, it will also serve as a research hub to support the social development of children with ASD.
The project is being developed in collaboration with Professor Cheon Geun Ah from the Paediatric Psychiatry Department with whom Suga has been actively involved since November 2024.
A central feature of the new facility is the MIND program, an innovative therapy model that stands with Music, Interaction, network and diversity. This program uses music as a therapeutic tool to enhance emotional expression, communicational skills and social interaction in children on the autism spectrum.
Activities will include singing, playing instruments and music build confidence and interpersonal connections while celebrating each child’s individuality.
Suga has been reportedly volunteering his weekends between March and June 2025 to work directly with children. Additionally, he has assisted in teaching instruments and participating in music-based therapy.
The Min Yoongi Treatment Centre is scheduled to open in September 2025. Once operational, it will significantly expand Severance Hospital’s paediatric mental health services.
