In a heartfelt pioneering move, BTS member Min Yoongi, known globally by his stage name SUGA, has established the Min Yoongi Treatment Centre, a specialised facility dedicated to the treatment, care, and social empowerment of individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The centre marks a significant milestone in South Korea’s approach to mental health and neurodiversity, reflecting Yoongi’s long-standing advocacy for inclusivity and mental wellness.
Yoongi said at the centre’s opening ceremony
Dr. Hwang Seok-jin, a leading neurodevelopmental psychiatrist and one of the centre’s clinical directors, emphasised the uniqueness of this vision.
Yoongi noted.
“I want this centre to be a safe place, a hopeful place. A place where every person with autism and their families can feel supported, empowered, and seen.”
As the centre opens its doors, it stands not just as a testament to one artist’s compassion, but as a beacon of progress in a society increasingly ready to embrace inclusivity.
With the Min Yoongi Treatment Centre, Yoongi transforms his legacy from chart-topping artist to changemaker, redefining what it means to use one’s influence for good.
A Vision Rooted in Empathy
Known for his introspective lyrics and openness about his own mental health journey, Yoongi has frequently used his platform to promote healing and challenge stigma. The establishment of the Min Yoongi treatment centre is an extension of that mission, this time aimed at creating tangible, sustained support for those on the autism spectrum.Yoongi said at the centre’s opening ceremony
Comprehensive Services and Holistic Care
Located in the outskirts of Seoul, the Min Yoongie Centre offers a full spectrum of services which include:- Occupational and sensory integration therapy
- Speech and behavioural therapy
- Vocational training and social skills programs for teens and adults
- Parental and caregiver training workshops
- Art and music therapy, with a special emphasis on creative expression
Empowering Independence
More than a treatment facility, the centre also serves as a hub for social integration and research. One of its cornerstone initiatives is the Independence Program, which pairs adolescents and young adults with mentors and life coaches. This program aims to foster vocational readiness, community engagement, and confident, empowering participants to live independently with support.Dr. Hwang Seok-jin, a leading neurodevelopmental psychiatrist and one of the centre’s clinical directors, emphasised the uniqueness of this vision.
A Personal Commitment
Yoongi has reportedly contributed a significant portion of the funding himself and has vowed to continue supporting the centre both publicly and financially. In addition, he announced a partnership with a BTS fan community, ARMY, to create volunteer networks and scholarship programs for families in need of financial assistance.Yoongi noted.
“I want this centre to be a safe place, a hopeful place. A place where every person with autism and their families can feel supported, empowered, and seen.”
Global Praise and Local Impact
The announcement has been met with praise from both global autism advocacy organisations and domestic health authorities. BTS fans worldwide have taken to social media to express their support, using hashtags #HealingWithYoongi and #MinYoongiTreatmentCenter to raise awareness and celebrate the initiative.As the centre opens its doors, it stands not just as a testament to one artist’s compassion, but as a beacon of progress in a society increasingly ready to embrace inclusivity.
With the Min Yoongi Treatment Centre, Yoongi transforms his legacy from chart-topping artist to changemaker, redefining what it means to use one’s influence for good.
