It’s safe to say that G-Dragon (지드래곤) is a living legend in K-pop, having built a reputable career in music and fashion. Now, the BIGBANG (빅뱅) leader will soon reach another milestone with a prestigious recognition.
Earlier this week, it was announced that G-Dragon has been awarded the Okgwan (Jade Crown) Order of Culture Merit. The honour is the fourth out of five classes under the South Korean order of merit and is one of the country’s most esteemed accolades. The merit is awarded by the President to individuals who have made outstanding meritorious services to promote the nation’s culture and arts.
G-Dragon is honoured with the award for his work in expanding the value of Korea’s pop culture worldwide through his influence in the music industry. The Okgwan class is also the highest honour ever to be granted to a K-pop idol. The global superstar will receive this recognition at the 16th Korean Popular Culture and Arts Awards, scheduled for 23rd October 2025 (Thursday), at the National Theatre of Korea’s Haeo-reum Theatre.
At the same time, South Korean actress Kim Haesook (김해숙) and actors Lee Byunghun (이병헌) and Jung Donghwan (정동환) will be honoured with the Eungwan (Silver Crown) and the Bogwan (Precious Crown) Order of Cultural Merit, the second and third classes, respectively. The government will also award Presidential, Prime Minister and Ministerial commendations to several idol groups and soloists, including SEVENTEEN (세븐틴), TVXQ! (동방신기), BLACKPINK’s Rosé (블랙핑크 로제), TWICE (트와이스) and ATEEZ (에이티즈).
While G-Dragon is the first idol to receive the Okgwan Order of Cultural Merit, he isn’t the first singer in history. In 2012, singer Psy (싸이) received the cultural merit, thanks to the impact of his iconic hit, “Gangnam Style”. BTS (방탄소년단) was also honoured with the culture merit in 2018. The group and each member, RM, Jin, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V and Jungkook, were awarded the Hwagwan (Flower Crown), the fifth class.
G-dragon being awarded such a prestigious award is a testament to his impact in K-pop and in the global entertainment scene. We congratulate the singer on this new milestone and hope this will inspire the future generation of artists.
Source: Korea Herald
