thesilkroadtoday
By: Park Myung-yoon
Chairman, Korea Health and Nutrition Research Institute; Advisor, Seoul National University PhD Association in Public Health
Suga (Min Yoongi) of BTS has long shown consistent interest in donations and charitable activities. In 2023, he made a substantial donation to Yonsei Medical Center’s Severance Hospital to support treatment for children and adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorder. The donation has been used for treatment programs and research support within the hospital. However, it has not been confirmed that any specific building or treatment center was officially established under his name. His donation is known to be among the largest contributions by a celebrity to Yonsei Medical Center.
Suga is a rapper, producer, composer, and lyricist, and a key member who has shaped BTS’s musical identity. Since his teenage years, he has created beats and written rap lyrics using a computer, and during high school he worked part-time in music-related jobs, learning composition and arrangement. He is recognized for blending hip-hop beats with lyrical melodies.
In 2018, he became the first BTS member to be registered as a full member of the Korea Music Copyright Association. He has also stood out as a producer through collaborations with artists such as IU and PSY. His work is known for its confessional lyrics that honestly express his personal experiences and struggles, contributing both realism and emotional depth to BTS’s music. He participated in writing and composing songs such as “I NEED U” and “Spring Day.”
His real name is Min Yoongi (閔玧其), and he was born on March 9, 1993, in Daegu. He began his trainee career after participating in Big Hit Entertainment’s audition program “Hit It” and later graduated from Global Cyber University in Broadcasting and Entertainment.
BTS officially debuted on June 13, 2013, with the single album 2 COOL 4 SKOOL and the track “No More Dream.” They gained attention for their powerful performances and socially conscious music, winning several rookie awards in their debut year. The group originally consisted of seven members: RM, Suga, Jin, J-Hope, Jimin, V, and Jungkook.
On the evening of March 21, the author watched a televised broadcast of a BTS concert. On that day, large numbers of fans gathered around Gwanghwamun Square, and the concert was streamed worldwide online. While exact audience numbers vary by source, it is clear that the event drew significant global attention.
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that appears in childhood and is characterized by difficulties in social interaction, limited communication, repetitive behaviors, and restricted interests. Developmental differences are usually observed in infancy or early childhood.
ASD is not a single disease but a spectrum of conditions with varying characteristics. While genetic factors are known to play a role, the exact causes and mechanisms are not fully understood. It is believed that differences in brain development, genetics, and environmental factors interact.
Symptoms include difficulties in social interaction, communication challenges, repetitive behaviors, and restricted interests. Individuals may have limited eye contact, difficulty forming peer relationships, strong focus on specific interests, or repeated behaviors.
Diagnosis involves reviewing developmental history, behavioral observation, and psychological and developmental assessments. Medical tests such as genetic testing, EEG, or MRI may be conducted if necessary.
The goal of treatment is to improve social skills, communication abilities, and adaptive functioning, helping individuals live more independently. Early detection, early education, behavioral therapy, speech therapy, and special education are essential, and medication may be used depending on symptoms.
ASD occurs regardless of race or socioeconomic status, and statistically it is diagnosed more frequently in boys. Various hypotheses exist to explain this, but no definitive theory has been established.
It is hoped that Suga’s donation to Yonsei Medical Center will play a meaningful role in supporting treatment and social adaptation for children and adolescents with ASD. Various approaches, including music-based social therapy programs, are being explored, and such efforts are expected to bring new hope to children with disabilities and their families.
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