Music Therapy Brings Joy to Pediatric Cancer Patients at Samsung Medical Center

On June 5th at 2 PM, children undergoing treatment for pediatric cancer at Samsung Medical Center in Gangnam, Seoul, gathered in the ward to sing along to Kim Kwang-seok's 'Where the Wind Blows' while playing instruments like the ukulele and drums. Despite the challenges of long-term chemotherapy, the children were filled with smiles. Among them was Kim Min-ji (27), a music therapist whose left cheek bore a blue mark measuring 4 cm by 7 cm, a reminder of her own battle with cancer.

Since March, Samsung Medical Center has been hosting weekly music therapy sessions for young cancer patients. Kim Min-ji, who was diagnosed with leukemia at the age of two and spent a year in the pediatric intensive care unit, leads these sessions. Although she was declared cancer-free at four, the blue mark on her face remains.

In her school years, Kim felt embarrassed by the mark, often using cheap makeup to cover it up. However, her father, who enjoyed playing the guitar, encouraged her to embrace her uniqueness. He would sing her favorite song, 'Young Lovers' by the Seoul National University Trio, instilling in her the message that love remains despite life's challenges. This support inspired Kim to pursue a career in music therapy.

Kim first visited the pediatric cancer ward in February as a guest speaker, sharing her story as a cancer survivor. The children quickly requested her return, leading to her ongoing involvement.

During a recent session, a seven-year-old boy named Son Mo jumped up and danced to a song by an idol group, IVY, despite having an IV in his arm. His mother, Lee Mo (43), expressed her fears of her son feeling lonely in the cold, dark hospital room, but felt grateful that the music classes allowed him to create joyful memories.

One of Kim's favorite songs to share with the children is 'Dandelion' by Woo Hyo. The lyrics, 'I love you, just as you are,' resonate deeply with the kids, who sing along enthusiastically. Kim emphasizes the importance of self-acceptance, reminding them that everyone deserves love just as they are, even if they stand out from the crowd.