On June 23, a groundbreaking ceremony was held at the Severance Hospital for the ‘Min Yoongi Therapy Center,’ dedicated to treating children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder. BTS member Suga donated an impressive 5 billion KRW (approximately 50 million USD) towards the establishment of this center. This donation marks the highest sum given by an artist to the Severance Children’s Hospital and Yonsei University Health System, and it’s unprecedented for an individual celebrity to donate such a large amount at once.
Public reaction has been overwhelmingly positive, with comments expressing astonishment and admiration for Suga’s generosity. Beyond the monetary contribution, the true significance of Suga’s donation lies in his demonstrated sincerity and dedication. Since late last year, he collaborated with Professor Chun Keun-ah to develop the ‘MIND’ program by integrating musical content into existing social skills training for children with autism spectrum disorder. Children participating in the program engage in musical activities that enhance emotional expression, language development, and social skills.
From March to June, Suga personally involved himself in the program development, spending weekends participating in activities with children. He played instruments and guided the children in rhythm and harmony exercises to foster interaction and emotional expression. According to Professor Chun, the program led to noticeable improvements in children’s emotional and language abilities and in their social skills during collaborative activities.
Suga expressed gratitude and happiness for participating in the therapeutic process, emphasizing music as a vital means for emotional expression and communication. He vowed ongoing support to help more children become integral members of society.
Suga’s philanthropic work extends beyond this donation; he has consistently engaged in volunteer work and charitable contributions. His refusal to have tattoos, citing potential prejudice against social activities, underscores his commitment to societal contributions. This dedication has earned widespread praise and is seen as an example for other celebrities to follow.
The article also notes that Suga recently completed his alternative military service, marking the end of BTS’s group military service period. The group is preparing for a full comeback later in the year.