Public Perception of Do-in Exercise Therapy: A Survey Study

Objectives: This study aimed to investigate public awareness, experience, and perceptions of Do-in Exercise Therapy and to explore its potential for future clinical application and institutional support.Methods: A structured online survey was conducted among 300 adults in Korea. The questionnaire consisted of 32 items covering sociodemographic characteristics, experiences with Korean medicine, awareness and experience of Do-in Exercise Therapy, expectations regarding its effectiveness, perceived appropriate cost, and attitudes toward health insurance coverage. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the data, and chi-square tests were performed to examine associations between selected categorical variables. Multivariable binary logistic regression was conducted to identify factors associated with willingness to receive Do-in Exercise Therapy.Results: Of the 300 respondents, 16.7% had heard of Do-in Exercise Therapy before the survey, whereas 83.3% had not. Only 11 respondents had actual experience, but 73.0% indicated willingness to receive treatment if prescribed. Expectations regarding its effectiveness were generally favorable: 51.0% responded neutrally, 41.0% positively, and 8.0% negatively. The most frequently perceived appropriate cost for a session was in the 30,000 KRW range. In addition, 71.0% agreed that health insurance coverage may be needed, and willingness to use the therapy increased when insurance coverage was assumed.Conclusions: Although public awareness and actual experience of Do-in Exercise Therapy remain limited, there may be a degree of public acceptability when adequate information is provided. However, as this study is based on a public perception survey, further studies—including standardized clinical trials and health economic evaluations—are needed to assess its clinical effectiveness, standardization, and policy feasibility.