A study on the improvement for the classification of Korean Medicine industry

Objectives: This study aims to develop a revised classification system of the Korean Medicine (KM) industry that is practically feasible, ultimately laying the groundwork for the KM industry's development.Methods: The draft of classification structure and categories were established through review of literature on existing classification systems related to KM or industry. The experts who affiliated to representative organizations on KM industry were invited to conduct reviews for enhancing the draft’s practical validity and usability. The review process was iterated until consensus was achieved among the experts, ensuring the revised classification was comprehensive and robust.Results: Three drafts were created in total, and the final revised classification system consisted of the ‘KM industry’ and the ‘KM-related industry’ (indirectly related or supportive of the KM industry). The ‘KM industry’ includes KM medicaments, KM medical instruments and appliances, and KM healthcare service. The ‘KM-related industry’ includes KM research, KM administration, KM education, and KM organization. Two key points emerged from the open feedback: the necessity of establishing new sectors within the KM industry and the need for further research on methods to link these new sectors with existing statistical data.Conclusions: The revised classification system of the KM industry developed in this study can serve as an important foundational resource for policymakers, researchers, and industry practitioners in the relevant field, supporting their research and policy development.