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Gwanghyewon

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On a crisp February day in 1885, a pivotal moment in Korean medical history unfolded. Amidst the political turmoil of the Gapsin Coup, Min Young-ik, nephew of Empress Myeongseong, lay gravely wounded. Dr. Horace Newton Allen, an American Presbyterian missionary doctor, stepped forward. Using then-unfamiliar Western medical techniques, Allen miraculously restored Min to health. This act of healing resonated deeply with King Gojong, forever changing the landscape of Korean medicine. This very spot marks the location of Gwanghyewon, Korea’s first western hospital. Initially called “House of Extended Grace,” Gwanghyewon opened its doors on February 29, 1885, thanks to the vision of King Gojong and Dr. Allen. Gwanghyewon symbolized the dawn of modern medicine in Korea. Just two weeks later, the King renamed it Chejungwon, meaning “House of Universal Helpfulness.” This marked the beginning of its journey. In 1886, Chejungwon, the future Severance Hospital, took a significant step in medical education. Sixteen men were selected to form the first class of medical students. Twelve of these pioneers would go on to earn their medical degrees. Gwanghyewon, later Chejungwon, represents not just a building but a turning point. Western medical practices began to take root. The knowledge and techniques introduced within these walls rippled outward, impacting countless lives.

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