10-2

C. H. LEE, Center for Advanced Food Science and Technology, Korea University, Seoul, South Korea

Traditional herbal medicines and therapeutic foods are still widely used among the people of northern China (Manchuria), Korea, and Japan, although modern life style and westernized food industries are prevalent in the region. Through the history of 5000 years, the Korean people experienced Shamanistic belief, Taoism, Buddhism (since 400 AD), Confucianism (since 1400 AD), and Christian culture (since 1900 AD). The dominant religions throughout history influenced the dietary culture and food habits of the people. The traditional health concepts of the people are mainly based on the Taoistic belief and Chinese medicine. The Yin/Yang and Five-Phases theories are applied in selection of food for the maintenance of health as well as disease control. The principles applied to the formulation of traditional Korean menus are discussed and some examples of Korean and Japanese therapeutic foods will be introduced.