Min Yoongi Center

SUGA, known for his charitable work and focus on youth mental health, especially depression, partnered with Professor Chun Geun-ah of Severance Hospital last November. They identified the need for customized, long-term ASD treatment beyond existing short-term methods. SUGA pledged ₩5 billion—the largest donation by an artist to Severance or Yonsei Medical Center—to support the center’s development.

Severance Hospital is a prestigious, top-ranked institution renowned for advanced medical care, patient satisfaction, and global recognition

From late 2023 to early 2024, SUGA and Professor Chun worked on developing a music-based social skills program called MIND, tailored for children and adolescents with ASD.

MIND stands for:

•     Music – Enhancing interaction through musical and sensory experiences

•     Interaction – Facilitating communication and relationship-building

•     Network – Learning social dynamics in a community setting

•     Diversity – Embracing individual uniqueness and social integration

The program involves playing instruments, singing, writing lyrics, and expressing emotions through music and writing. Between March and June, SUGA personally participated in weekend sessions, playing instruments and helping children engage rhythmically and emotionally. He even taught them how to play instruments, encouraging self-expression and peer cooperation. The results were notable: children who previously showed limited verbal or emotional responses began to engage, express themselves, and collaborate with peers.

The MIND program proved effective in helping nonverbal or verbally limited children build social relationships and emotional awareness.

Looking ahead, the Min Yoongi Treatment Center aims to expand the MIND program, develop a sustainable music-based therapy model, and train professionals to maintain program quality. 

Professor Chun expressed deep gratitude, saying, “Beyond financial support, SUGA’s sincerity and consistent volunteer work over the past several months have been deeply inspiring. His dedication to children with ASD is truly commendable. The ultimate goal of the Min Yoongi Treatment Center and MIND program is to help these children grow as independent, healthy members of society, while also changing societal perceptions of autism.”

SUGA shared, “Over the past seven months of working with Professor Chun, I’ve realized how powerful music can be as a tool to express emotions and connect with the world. It’s been a blessing to be involved in the treatment process for children with ASD. I’ll continue to support efforts that help more children become part of our community.”

"I hope Min Yoongi Center becomes a small beacon of hope demonstrating the power of music and a starting point for great strides." — Min Yoongi