Donguibogam

Definition

Donguibogam is a comprehensive medical text from the late Joseon period, written by the physician Heo Jun. This work serves as a significant contribution to Korean traditional medicine, synthesizing various medical theories and practices of the time while promoting health and healing strategies rooted in Confucian values. It reflects the growing importance of medical knowledge and education during this era, especially among the educated elite.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Donguibogam was completed in 1613 and quickly became one of the most influential medical texts in Korea, shaping healthcare practices for centuries.
2. The text is organized into sections that address various diseases, treatments, and medical theories, showcasing a blend of Eastern medical traditions.
3. It emphasizes the importance of balance between mind and body, aligning with Confucian ideals about harmony in life.
4. Donguibogam has been recognized by UNESCO as part of the Memory of the World Register, underscoring its historical significance and cultural impact.
5. The book played a key role in elevating the status of medicine within the Yangban class, as it was used for both scholarly study and practical applications.

Review Questions

• How did Donguibogam contribute to the understanding and practice of medicine during the Joseon period?
  • Donguibogam contributed significantly to the understanding and practice of medicine during the Joseon period by compiling various medical knowledge and practices into a single comprehensive text. It provided structured guidance on diagnosing and treating illnesses while integrating Confucian principles that emphasized harmony and balance. The work not only educated physicians but also reinforced the status of medicine as an important field among the Yangban class, who valued scholarly pursuits.
• Analyze how Confucian values influenced the content and reception of Donguibogam within Joseon society.
  • Confucian values heavily influenced both the content and reception of Donguibogam, as it emphasized concepts such as harmony, moral conduct, and social responsibility. The integration of these ideals into medical practices underscored the belief that health was not only a personal matter but also a societal one. This approach helped garner respect for medical practitioners among the Yangban class, as they viewed medicine through a lens that included ethical behavior and proper governance.
• Evaluate the long-term impact of Donguibogam on Korean traditional medicine and its relevance in modern healthcare.
  • The long-term impact of Donguibogam on Korean traditional medicine is profound, as it established foundational theories and practices that are still relevant today. Its emphasis on holistic treatment approaches continues to influence modern healthcare practices in Korea. The text's recognition by international organizations also highlights its role in preserving cultural heritage and promoting traditional medicine globally. As contemporary healthcare increasingly seeks integrated methods, Donguibogam serves as a vital resource that bridges historical practices with modern needs.

Related terms

Heo Jun: Heo Jun was a prominent Korean physician and the author of Donguibogam, known for his efforts to make medical knowledge accessible to a broader audience.

Traditional Korean Medicine: A holistic approach to health that incorporates herbal remedies, acupuncture, and dietary therapy, which is foundational to practices described in Donguibogam.

Confucianism: A philosophical and ethical system that deeply influenced Korean society, including the practice and teaching of medicine during the Joseon period.