BTS’ SUGA is extending his meaningful work in autism spectrum care―and spreading positive influence along the way.
Last month, Severance Hospital announced the publication of a clinical manual for a music-based social skills training program for children and teens with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), titled the MIND Program. The development was led by Prof. Cheon Geun-ah’s research team at the Department of Psychiatry, Yonsei University College of Medicine, with SUGA credited as a co-author.
The MIND (Music-Interaction-Network-Diversity) Program is a therapy model that strengthens group interaction through music. It was designed to complement the limits of language-centered social skills training. Through playing instruments and ensemble sessions, children naturally learn to read others’ cues, practice waiting and cooperation, express emotions, and build social relationships.
In 2025, SUGA donated 5 billion won to Yonsei Severance Hospital to establish the Min Yoongi Treatment Center, supporting treatment and social independence for children and adolescents with ASD. Since then, he has gone beyond simple sponsorship―sharing ideas from the planning stage and directly participating in music activities as a hands-on collaborator.
While the field can feel technical to the general public, SUGA’s involvement has boosted awareness of autism spectrum disorder. Among fans, posts about buying related books or starting to study the topic are spreading, signaling a wave of self-driven learning.
A “MIND Band” made up of children who grew through the music-based program SUGA proposed also held its first inaugural concert late last year, signaling tangible results.
(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Kyung-youn)
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