[Hinews] SEOUL, South Korea — Yonsei Severance Hospital announced the opening of the Min Yoongi Treatment Center on September 30, a specialized facility for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The center was established with a 50 billion won ($38 million) donation from BTS member Suga, whose real name is Min Yoongi.

The opening ceremony, held at the hospital’s Jejung Hall on the first floor, was attended by key figures, including Yonsei University President Dong-sup Yoon, Yonsei Medical Center Director Ki-chang Keum, Severance Hospital Director Kang-young Lee, Children’s Hospital Director Hoon-chul Kang, and Psychiatry Department Chair Seok-kyun Ahn. Geun-ah Cheon, a professor of pediatric psychiatry, will serve as the center’s director.

The Min Yoongi Treatment Center focuses on the MIND program, a music-based social skills training initiative designed to support children with ASD, particularly those who struggle with verbal communication. Through musical instruments, the program fosters self-expression and social interaction, enabling children to engage in meaningful ways.

Severance Hospital holds opening ceremony for the ‘Min Yoongi Treatment Center,’ a music-based autism treatment facility. (Photo courtesy of Severance Hospital)
Severance Hospital holds opening ceremony for the ‘Min Yoongi Treatment Center,’ a music-based autism treatment facility. (Photo courtesy of Severance Hospital)

A multidisciplinary team of pediatric psychiatrists, music therapists, speech therapists, and behavioral therapists will provide tailored interventions, integrating music therapy with speech, behavioral, and social skills training. The center’s facilities include soundproofed music therapy rooms equipped with advanced acoustics, dedicated spaces for speech and behavioral therapy, and a waiting area for families. The waiting area also showcases artwork by Kyu-jae Lee, an artist with autism, highlighting the center’s commitment to celebrating the talents of individuals with ASD.

Looking ahead, the center plans to expand its facilities to meet growing demand and develop additional arts-based therapeutic programs. Later this year, the MIND program will host a stage performance for participating children. In November, a two-day camp for children with ASD and their families is scheduled, followed by a showcase at Yonsei University’s Grand Auditorium in December.

“Arts-based therapies can significantly enhance children’s independence and social skills,” said Dr. Cheon, the center’s director. “We also hope this initiative will foster greater societal understanding and acceptance of autism.”

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