• The Journal of Korean Medical History
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• v.32 no.1
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• pp.1-10
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• 2019

The Taesangugeupbang (Emergency Prescriptions for Childbirth) is a medical text written by Li-Chengong of China in the early 14th century. It incorporates forms of obstetrics and gynecology in use in the Chosun Dynasty and is quoted in the Hyangyakjibsungbang (Compendium of Prescription from the Countryside), the Euibangyoochui (Classified Collection of Medical Prescriptions), and the Taesanjibyo (Collection of Essentials for Childbirth). The recent rediscovery of Taesangugeupbang manuscripts in Japan has enabled full-scale research of this text. This article is based on a study of these manuscripts and attempts to synthesize the text through the various documents. The article suggests that: (1) critical texts for understanding the Taesangugeupbang include the Uijeoggo (A Review of Medical Books), the Euibangyoochui, and the Taesanjibyo; (2) there is a possibility that the Taesangugeupbang had disappeared from use in Joseon by the late 15th century; (3) the Taesangugeupbang complemented the treatment regimen of other texts and influenced the development of early Chosun ophthalmology; (4) The Taesangugeupbang is quoted in many Joseon's medical texts and is related to the author's mentor.