Tensions Between Traditional Korean Medicine and Western Biomedicine From the Chosun Dynasty to 2024

South Korea utilizes a dual healthcare system with traditional Korean medicine, or TKM, and Western biomedicine; however, there has been continuous conflict between the two systems since the fall of the Chosun Dynasty to modern-day Korea. This paper investigates the role of American missionaries and Japanese colonial rule in marginalizing and devaluing TKM, while Korean nationalist sentiment post-WWII led to the revival of TKM as a legitimate form of medical treatment still in use in modern-day Korea. Beginning with a brief review of the Chosun Dynasty, TKM was developed through foundational texts like the Tongeubogam and figures like Heo Joon and Lee Je Ma. In the late 19th century, American missionaries brought Western medicine to Korea and attempted to suppress traditional indigenous practices. From 1910-145, during the Japanese colonial era, TKM was further delegitimized by the Japanese in favor of Western medicine, limiting the role of Korean herbal doctors. After WWII, TKM regained legitimacy, although biomedicine still dominated the healthcare system. Finally, in 1951, TKM was included as an official option in Korea’s dual healthcare system after herbal doctors advocated for its integration. TKM has been an essential component in understanding unique Korean cultural syndromes, such as “hwa-byung,” a culturally specific disorder that doctors often relate to Korea’s difficult colonial past. Finally, TKM is gaining cultural and medical importance in modern Korea, as shown through reviews of recent surveys from 2015-2023 and treatment programs developed using TKM during COVID-19.