Objectives : The terms, CAM and Integrative Medicine, have been often used to conceptualize relation between TKM and western medicine in Korea. But both terms often lead to confusion since the backgrounds of those were not being properly discussed. Methods : We researched the concepts of CAM and Integrative Medicine through the changes in definitions and research methods. Results : Although modern medical verification of CAM showed some results through scientific researches, there existed certain limitations. The term Integrative Medicine newly emerged for this reason. The rise of the new term came to criticize existing research methodologies such as RCTs or SRs. However in Korea, Integrative Medicine has often been misunderstood as a unification of two different medical systems. Conclusions : Thus, in future research of relationship between TKM and western medicine, debates on plausibility & philosophical background of TKM, and research methodology are indispensable.