Korean Medicine's Globalization Project and Its Powerscapes

In an effort to expand its boundaries by including science and industry in its realm, Korean medicine (KM) has undertaken a variety of globalization projects. KM's entrance into the global scientific community is intended to enhance its scientific status. KM professionals are also attempting to build scientific-industrial networks so that they can manufacture and sell KM commodities, both in Korea and in foreign countries. The hybrid, fluid nature of KM enables these professionals to extend its reach and global influence, yet this process—the globalization of KM—also requires that KM participate in the global hegemony of science and the pharmaceutical industry. The contradictions inherent in this scenario give rise to uneven negotiations and conflicts at the local, national, and global levels. This paper considers these powers capes—multiple and changing power relations—and their impact on KM's globalization activities.