Master of Traditional Gold Acupuncture, Principal Korean Medicine Practitioner Myung-Ki Son Leads the Modernization of Acupuncture Therapy
In recent years, "Geumchim" (Gold Acupuncture) — a unique form of treatment that uses needles made of pure gold — has been receiving renewed attention as it becomes increasingly integrated with modern medical science. At the forefront of this movement is Principal Korean Medicine Practitioner Myung-Ki Son (born in 1953), director of the World Best Gold Acupuncture Clinic, who is widely recognized as the nation’s leading authority on gold acupuncture. He is drawing significant attention for his pioneering efforts in modernizing this traditional treatment method. With over 40 years of dedication to Korean acupuncture and the clinical application of gold needles, Practitioner Son began developing his own specialized treatment techniques in the early 2000s. His work has produced remarkable results, particularly in treating patients with chronic and hard-to-treat illnesses. “Even classical Korean medical texts reference Geumseol (gold Thread), describing its spicy and sweet properties, which are said to influence the lungs and spleen, stabilize the mind, support internal organs, strengthen bone marrow, and calm convulsions in children by facilitating the flow of energy through meridians,” explains Son. “Historically, gold acupuncture was favored by the upper class as one of the most effective methods for maintaining health and treating disease.” Gold acupuncture involves crafting pure gold into ultra-fine threads, thinner than human hair, which are then applied to the body using specialized techniques. Compared to conventional acupuncture, gold acupuncture offers superior anti-inflammatory effects, boosts the immune system, and significantly promotes faster recovery. “Gold is completely biocompatible and has no toxicity or allergenic properties,” Son emphasizes. “It enhances blood and energy circulation, making it highly effective for pain relief, inflammation reduction, and immune system reinforcement.” The therapeutic applications of gold acupuncture are diverse. According to Son, it has shown exceptional results in treating musculoskeletal disorders such as arthritis, herniated discs, and frozen shoulder, as well as conditions like chronic fatigue, digestive disorders, and neuralgia. Many of his patients — including those who have suffered from chronic conditions for decades without relief — have reported significant improvement after undergoing gold acupuncture treatment. Son also highlights the safety profile of this therapy: “The fact that gold is non-toxic and non-allergenic means that gold acupuncture produces virtually no side effects. This sets it apart from conventional acupuncture and makes it especially appealing to those who have not found success with other treatments.” Currently, Principal Practitioner Son is actively involved in collaborative efforts with former and current practitioners of both Western and Korean medicine, contributing to the establishment of an integrative medical system for treating intractable diseases. He is also playing a key role in clinical research and development through the Korean Society of Acupuncture and Moxibustion. “For Korean medicine to advance in today’s world, it is essential to integrate traditional knowledge with modern science to propose innovative treatment solutions,” Son asserts. “I will continue working towards the global recognition and expansion of gold acupuncture.” With his unique expertise, dedication, and innovation, Principal Korean Medicine Practitioner Myung-Ki Son is leading the way in bringing traditional acupuncture into the modern era — and his efforts are expected to play a major role in globalizing this exceptional therapeutic technique. 최지원 기자acupuncture modernization korean acupuncture gold acupuncture acupuncture clinic
