Dongui bogam

Definition

The 'dongui bogam' is a comprehensive medical encyclopedia compiled during the late Joseon Dynasty in Korea by Heo Jun. It serves as a vital text in traditional Korean medicine, offering insights into various diseases, treatments, and herbal remedies while integrating Eastern and Western medical knowledge. This work not only reflects the advancements in medical practices of the time but also provides a historical perspective on Korean health care systems, especially during periods of conflict and innovation.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The 'dongui bogam' was completed in 1613 and became a foundational text for the practice of traditional Korean medicine.
2. It categorizes diseases based on symptoms and offers treatment protocols using herbal remedies and acupuncture techniques.
3. The work was written in Hangul to make it accessible to a wider audience, as many medical texts were previously only available in Classical Chinese.
4. The 'dongui bogam' was influential not just in Korea but also in neighboring countries like Japan and China, which adopted some of its principles.
5. During the Japanese invasions of Korea (1592-1598), the need for organized medical knowledge became apparent, leading to a greater emphasis on texts like the 'dongui bogam'.

Review Questions

• How did Heo Jun's 'dongui bogam' reflect the integration of Eastern and Western medical practices during its time?
  • 'dongui bogam' illustrates the integration of Eastern and Western medical practices by synthesizing knowledge from various sources, including traditional Chinese medicine and emerging Western concepts. Heo Jun recognized the importance of adapting foreign medical knowledge to local practices, which resulted in a unique blend that catered to the health needs of Koreans. This encyclopedic approach not only advanced medical knowledge but also provided a comprehensive reference that improved healthcare standards during the Joseon Dynasty.
• Analyze the impact of the 'dongui bogam' on Korean society during and after the Joseon Dynasty, particularly in terms of health care practices.
  • 'dongui bogam' had a profound impact on Korean society by standardizing medical practices and promoting the use of traditional remedies. Its publication allowed for greater dissemination of medical knowledge among practitioners and laypeople alike, which improved public health. The text’s emphasis on preventive care and holistic treatment has influenced Korean medicine even into modern times, establishing a cultural legacy that remains relevant today.
• Evaluate how the historical context of the Japanese invasions (1592-1598) may have influenced the creation and dissemination of the 'dongui bogam', considering its relevance during periods of crisis.
  • The Japanese invasions prompted an urgent need for effective medical responses to wartime injuries and illnesses. This urgency likely fueled Heo Jun's motivation to compile the 'dongui bogam', ensuring that essential medical knowledge was documented systematically. The invasions highlighted weaknesses in existing healthcare systems, making it crucial to have a reliable resource that could guide practitioners in treating various ailments during such turbulent times. Consequently, the 'dongui bogam' became not only a medical manual but also a symbol of resilience and adaptation in Korean healthcare amidst crisis.

Related terms

Heo Jun: A renowned Korean physician of the late 16th century, known for his expertise in traditional medicine and the author of the 'dongui bogam'.

Herbal Medicine: A branch of traditional medicine that uses plants and plant extracts for therapeutic purposes, which is extensively covered in the 'dongui bogam'.

Joseon Dynasty:

The dynastic period in Korea from 1392 to 1897, known for its cultural, scientific, and political developments, including advancements in medical practices.