Orde van Diplomatieke Verdienste

The Order of Diplomatic Merit (Orde van Diplomatieke Verdienste) was established in 1962 and serves as the principal distinction for diplomats accredited to the Republic of Korea. Korean diplomats and those involved in state visits may also receive this distinction. The insignia and stars were modified in 1974.

There are five grades.

This order is divided into:

The Grand Gwanghwa Medal (First Class, First Grade).

A Grand Cross on a purplish-red ribbon. This grade is awarded only to Koreans.

The Gwanghwa Medal (First Class, Second Grade).

A Grand Cross on a purplish-red ribbon. The ribbon bar has two blue stripes and the buttonhole decoration has one.

The Heung-in Medal

A Commander’s Cross on a dark pink ribbon with black stripes along the edges, with a star.

The Sungrye Medal

A Commander’s Cross on a dark red ribbon with three dark blue stripes along the edges.

The Chang-eui Medal

An Officer’s Cross on a dark red ribbon with two dark blue stripes along the edges.

and the

The Sugjeong Medal

An Officer’s Cross on a dark red ribbon with one dark blue stripe along the edges.

The insignia is a red eight-pointed saltire on a gold four-pointed star.