- published: 04 Aug 2015
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Jang Geum (fl. early 16th century; family name unknown) was reputedly the only female Royal Physician in Korean history. She was mentioned about seven times in the Annals of the Joseon Dynasty, albeit with very vague and sketchy details. It is known, however, that King Jungjong was pleased with Jang Geum's medical knowledge and trusted her with taking care of royal family members. Henceforth, Jang Geum became the third highest ranking officer in the Court, and was granted the use of Dae (which means "great" in Korean) before her first names.
Scholars still debate on whether Jang Geum is a real person, but there are sources that attests to Jang Geum as a real person .
It is worth noting that Jang Geum is still, to this day, the only female physician of a Korean head of state or government.
Mentions of Jang Geum, or a "female doctor", happened on these occasions:
The entry on October 29, 1544 was the last entry regarding Jang Geum.
Jang Geum was also mentioned in a book title " Yi dynasty Medical Officer's Journal". The following was a text regarding Jang Geum's origins and achievements, as recorded in the medical journal.
Burn!
Arisen by a silver sword
That lost it's battle shine
As I walk into the gate
I left that world behind
My Father awakes me with his calls
Rotten, vile, human pride
Knowing better than I
With my arrival the Earth shall die
The legions scream, that was a day
My swords fell on them a thousand times
I was dealt with by fire
And with fire I shall depart
Left in the deep, my soul will
Always breath and feel in the deep
Arisen in my Father's womb
Life sustain me for his might
Flames are flames, they are to hurt
Flames still flames, they are to hurt
No one can ever imagine
His flames embrace all Earth and sky
But you are drowning in fire
Through our invisible hearts
I am immortal
I cannot die
So heed me, Father
Your heart is mine
Tears run down my closed eyes
And all that fire burning inside
The pierced tears add time for soul
I shall await for the next to go
Goodbye my soul has given to you
And the strong shall be weak
The blood of my world
Awaits in your grace
Hear me my beloved son
I cannot teach you
Any further
A new Aeon
Has begun
You're the next to