The article discusses the establishment of a specialized treatment center for children and adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) by Severance Hospital in collaboration with BTS’s Suga (real name Min Yoongi). This center, named the Min Yoongi Treatment Center, aims to support the treatment and social independence of ASD patients. The facility will provide various programs, including language, psychological, and behavioral therapies, integrating clinical practice with research.
The groundbreaking ceremony was held at Severance Hospital in Seoul, marking the beginning of the center’s construction. Suga has shown continuous interest in mental health and psychological and behavioral issues, particularly youth depression, in parallel with his activities as a BTS member.
In November of the previous year, Suga connected with Chun Geun-ah, a pediatric psychiatry authority at Severance Hospital. Through several meetings, they realized that ASD patients require long-term tailored treatment beyond short-term interventions. Recognizing the need for a specialized center to support long-term treatment over a decade or more, Suga donated 5 billion KRW to establish the center, marking the highest donation from an artist to Yonsei Medical Center.
Suga and Professor Chun developed the “MIND” program, a music-based social skills training program, integrating musical content into existing social skills programs. The “MIND” acronym stands for enhancing Music-based sensory experiences, Interaction through social engagement, Network building through community learning, and embracing Diversity. Participating children engage in activities like playing instruments, singing, and expressing their emotions and thoughts through music and writing.
Suga actively participated in program development by meeting with ASD children from March to June, guiding them in musical interactions. The program significantly improved the emotional and verbal expression of the children, and their social skills enhanced as they collaborated and interacted.
The Min Yoongi Treatment Center plans to enhance the MIND program and develop an independent music project model. Upon the center’s completion in September, expanded therapy sessions utilizing music for social skills will be offered to individuals with developmental disabilities, alongside ongoing ABA and language therapies. Research and publication efforts will support the program’s credibility and reach.
Professor Chun expressed gratitude for Suga’s genuine support and volunteer work, highlighting the center’s goal to eliminate prejudice and improve awareness about ASD through music. Suga conveyed his appreciation for contributing to the program, stating that participating in such activities brought immense joy and gratitude, committing to continued efforts for societal integration of ASD individuals.