On September 30, Severance Hospital officially inaugurated the Min Yoongi Treatment Center on the first floor of the Jejung Hall. The ceremony was attended by Yonsei University President Yoon Dong-seop, Yonsei Medical Center Director Keum Ki-chang, Severance Hospital President Lee Kang-young, Severance Children’s Hospital Director Kang Hoon-chul, and Severance Hospital Department of Psychiatry Head Ahn Seok-kyun, along with Min Yoongi Treatment Center Director Professor Chun Geun-ah.
Representatives from external organizations, including Kim Yong-jik, President of the Korean Autism Society, were also present.
The facility was established through a ₩5 billion (approx. $3.6 million) donation from BTS member Suga (real name Min Yoongi) to Severance Children’s Hospital in June. Inside, the center includes specialized rooms for language and behavioral therapy, as well as music and social therapy rooms equipped with advanced acoustic and soundproofing systems. The waiting area features artwork by autistic artist Lee Kyu-jae, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Suga has been engaged in volunteer activities with autistic children since last year, often playing guitar and participating in music-based programs. Inspired by these efforts, the world’s first art-integrated treatment and independence program for university hospitals—called MIND—was developed. This program allows children to choose instruments, join ensemble sessions, and build social experiences, proving especially effective for those with limited verbal communication.
The center is staffed with child psychiatrists, as well as music, speech, and behavioral therapists, alongside clinical psychologists, ensuring personalized, integrated care. Director Chun Geun-ah emphasized: “The Min Yoongi Treatment Center is the starting point for art-integrated therapy spanning music, art, and even physical activities. Beyond treatment, it will play a crucial role in changing society’s perception of disabilities.”
Severance Hospital announced plans to expand the center in line with growing program demand and to focus on training specialized professionals to continue this pioneering approach.
Sources: Nate
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