Abstract
Objectives : This research aims to investigate the consumer's interest in the Korean Medicine (KM) industry by using Google-trends and Naver-Data lab. A quick and uncomplicated way for those who are already involved with KM industry but do not have expertise in utilizing Big-data searches, is introduced. Methods : 'Direct keyword' was set by FGI (Focus Group Interview) and 'Detailed keyword' was set by using relevant word search and autocomplete search functions in the search engine. By inquiring Naver-Data lab, keyword search volumes are compared by age and sex, date range, and originating region of the researcher. It is possible to determine whether the data is reliable or authentic through examining the associated query. Selected direct keywords used through FGI (Focus Group Interview) were 'Acupuncture', 'Herbal Medicine', 'Cupping', 'Musculoskeletal Disease', 'Diet', and 'Stemina'. Based on these keywords, the following results were derived from the keyword analysis. Results : From August 2016, there was a noticeable surge of interest in men's 'Cupping'. The search for 'Diet' increased in the second quarter of 2016 from all ages. The search volume of 'Stemna' for individuals in their 20s is higher than that of those in their 30s or 40s'. Researchers from the region of Chungcheongbuk-do had a higher level of interest in analgesics and less interest in Korean Medicine. There is a greater interest in the KM market from European countries and America, than from Korea, China, and other Asian countries. Discussion : Despite the limitations of the research, it is meaningful to introduce a quick and easy data search method to compare information by age, sex, and region. Conclusion : The future of research into Korea Medicine and this market is confirmed by our data results which indicate interest from Europe, the United States, and other western countries, but less interest from Korea, China and other Asian countries.