BTS’s Suga has made headlines by donating ₩5 billion KRW (approximately $3.6 million USD) just two days after completing his mandatory service as a public service worker.
On June 23, Severance Hospital announced the launch of a specialized treatment center for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), called the Min Yoongi Treatment Center, named after Suga’s real name. The donation is aimed at supporting treatment and social independence for patients with ASD.
This donation gained attention not only because of the enormous amount but also due to its timing—coming just two days after his discharge on June 21. It’s especially surprising considering the public backlash Suga faced last year after being caught driving an electric scooter under the influence. Despite the incident, he has since expressed sincere remorse and had been preparing this meaningful project quietly during his service.
According to Severance Hospital, Suga has long shown an interest in mental health and adolescent depression, continuing philanthropic efforts throughout his career. In November of last year, he began discussions with Dr. Chun Geun Ah, a leading child psychiatrist, recognizing the need for tailored, long-term treatment for young ASD patients.
Together, they developed the MIND program, a social training group that incorporates music-based content to support children with autism. From March to June this year, Suga even participated in weekend sessions, meeting ASD children firsthand to help shape the program.
His donation now stands as the largest ever made by an artist to Yonsei University Health System, which includes Severance Children’s Hospital.
Suga had been serving as a public service worker due to a previous shoulder injury from a traffic accident. He began his alternative service in September 2023, but in August of last year, he was prosecuted for driving under the influence and was later fined ₩15 million KRW (~$10,800 USD).
After quietly completing his service, Suga addressed fans with a heartfelt message:
“These two years gave me time to reflect on myself. I needed some distance from my usual work. This became an opportunity to look back on my journey so far.”
He also apologized:
“I’m truly sorry for the disappointment I caused last year. I was most upset that I hurt the fans’ hearts. I also feel sorry to the members who may have been burdened by my mistake. I will do my best to repay all the love you’ve given me.”
The donation, revealed as his first public act after discharge, was met with widespread praise:
“Let’s give credit where it’s due,” “₩5 billion is incredible,” “He even co-developed a treatment program—amazing,” “This will be a huge help to families with autistic children.”
Meanwhile, with Suga’s discharge, all BTS members have now completed their military service. Jin and J-Hope were discharged in June and October 2024, respectively, followed by RM and V on June 10, and Jimin and Jungkook on June 11. The group reunited publicly during J-Hope’s encore concert on June 13, BTS’s 12th debut anniversary.
