The Order of Diplomatic Service Merit

• Time Period: Post-WW2
• Institution: 25 July 1963
• Country: South Korea

The Order of Diplomatic Service Merit (수교훈장 in Korean) is one of South Korea’s orders of merit and one of the highest civilian awards of South Korea. The Order is awarded by the President of South Korea for “outstanding meritorious services in the interest of enhancing national prestige and promoting amity with allies.”

The Order was instituted on 25 July 1963 and amended in 1967. It is a relatively rare honor. It’s usually awarded to only a handful of people every year, usually to foreign officials or ambassadors for significant contributions in strengthening friendly relations with the Republic of Korea.

The Order of Diplomatic Service Merit is divided into 5 grades, with the first grade containing two classes (the higher of which is reserved for the most high-ranking diplomats):

• 1st Grand Gwanghwa Medal (광화대장)
  1st Gwanghwa Medal (광화장)
• 2nd Heungin Medal (흥인장)
• 3rd Sungnye Medal (숭례장)
• 4th Changui Medal (창의장)
• 5th Sukjeong Medal (숙정장)

The Order of Diplomatic Service Merit Design

The insignia of the Order of Diplomatic Service Merit is worn affixed to sash worn over the shoulder.