[King Jung-jo's medical philosophy]

Area of Science:

• History of Medicine
• Korean Medical History
• Chosun Dynasty Medicine

Background:

• King Jungjo of the Chosun Dynasty, known for cultural contributions, possessed significant medical knowledge.
• He authored "SueMinMyoJeon," a unique medical text among Korean royalty, reflecting his deep engagement with medicine.
• His medical insights are documented in historical records like "The Annals of the Chosun Dynasty" and his own writings.

Discussion:

• King Jungjo championed empiricism, integrating practical folk remedies into medical texts such as "JeJungShinPyun" and "MaGuaHeoiTong."
• His medical philosophy was rooted in Confucian principles of filial piety and governance focused on public welfare.
• He emphasized accessible medical knowledge, revising texts like "DongEuiBoGam" to remove esoteric theories and focus on practical application.

Key Insights:

• King Jungjo's dedication to his father, King Youngjo, and mother showcased his practical approach to care and disease differentiation.
• The publication of "JeJungShinPyun" provided accessible medical guidance for commoners, influencing later works like "BangYakHaepPyun."
• He stressed diagnostic consistency, particularly valuing Meridian pulse diagnosis, while criticizing the neglect of its study by contemporary physicians.

Outlook:

• King Jungjo's emphasis on pragmatism and empirical evidence shaped the dissemination of medical knowledge during the Chosun Dynasty.
• His personal practice of healthy regimens, noted in "IlDeukLok," suggests a holistic approach to well-being beyond theoretical medicine.
• Further research into King Jungjo's medical contributions can illuminate the intersection of royal patronage, Confucianism, and practical medicine in Korean history.