On October 24, 1908 (2nd year of Yunghu’s reign of Emperor Sunjong), the Imperial Edict announced the inauguration of Dahean Hospital Historic Site in Seoul, emphasizing that national strength depends on public health and calling for the spread of modern medicine and continued cooperation to expand medical care for the people.
“I, the Emperor, believe that the rise and fall of a country is primarily determined by the health and disease status of its people. Given our overall hygiene conditions, which are marked by a poor perception of public health and the absence of public medical facilities, I ordered those government officials in charge to embark on the establishment of Daehan Hospital through the utilization of friendly nations’ merits with the aim of fostering the active dissemination and promotion of medicine in accordance with the sacred intention of His Majesty Grand Emperor Gojong. The faithful performance of these duties has led to today’s successful completion of the construction and the inauguration of Daehan Hospital, and I am highly gratified at Daehan Hospital’s vision for the gradual expansion of medical benefits to the general public. However, there is still a long road ahead to achieve many of the expected missions of great importance. I envision Daehan Hospital’s attainment of its grand ambition through the harmonious cooperation with the government and the arduous effort of its staff. You, the government officials, are hereby commanded to obey my will.” – Korea’s Emperor Gojong
- Photos by Ludovico Carbone moc.liamg|1enobracocivodul#| (December 2025)
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Bibliography
– Seoul National University Hospital, The Museum of Medicine, Seoul c. 2020