In a historic milestone for K-pop and South Korean culture, G-Dragon (Kwon Ji-yong) has been awarded the Okgwan (Jade Crown) Order of Cultural Merit, 4th class the highest cultural honor ever bestowed upon a K-pop idol. The award will be presented at the 16th Korean Popular Culture and Arts Awards, taking place on October 23 at the Haeo-reum Theater in the National Theater of Korea.
The Okgwan Order of Cultural Merit is one of South Korea’s most prestigious distinctions, typically reserved for individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to the nation’s cultural and artistic heritage. G-Dragon’s recognition marks a historic first for a K-pop artist, reaffirming his unmatched role in elevating Korean pop culture onto the global stage.
Since debuting in 2006 as the leader of BigBang, G-Dragon has been a driving force in K-pop’s worldwide rise. Renowned for his innovative music, visionary fashion sense, and boundary-defying artistry, he has earned the enduring title of “King of K-pop.” His influence extends far beyond the music scene he is widely regarded as a trendsetter and cultural icon within the fashion world.
G-Dragon’s impact has been repeatedly acknowledged on international platforms: he appeared on Forbes Korea’s “2030 Power Leaders” list for three consecutive years and has been featured eight times in Hypebeast’s “100 Most Influential People in Fashion.”
Receiving the Okgwan Order of Cultural Merit not only honors G-Dragon’s personal achievements but also symbolizes the global validation of K-pop as a powerful cultural movement. This landmark recognition sets a new standard for future generations of artists, encouraging them to continue breaking boundaries and contributing to the dynamic evolution of Korean culture