Trump Receives South Korea’s Top Honour and Golden Crown

U.S. President Donald Trump was welcomed to South Korea on October 29, 2025, with a replica golden crown and the Grand Order of Mugunghwa—South Korea’s highest national honour. His visit comes during a crucial moment for Asia-Pacific diplomacy, with economic and security discussions unfolding amid the upcoming APEC Summit.

A Symbol of Peace and Diplomatic Recognition

• The Grand Order of Mugunghwa is South Korea’s highest order of merit, typically reserved for heads of state and royalty.
• By awarding this decoration to Donald Trump, the South Korean government recognised his role as a “peacemaker,” particularly for his previous engagements with North Korea during his presidency.
• According to the presidential office, Trump is the first U.S. president to receive this honour.
• In addition to the medal, Trump was presented with a replica of the Cheonmachong crown, a golden artefact from the Silla Kingdom, symbolising unity, stability, and peaceful reigns.
• Trump reportedly responded with enthusiasm, saying, “I’d like to wear it right now.”

Honouring Past Diplomatic Engagements

• Trump’s interactions with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un during his first term included unprecedented summits, though talks ultimately stalled.
• Still, South Korea credited those efforts with reducing regional tensions at a critical moment.
• During this 2025 visit, Trump reiterated his willingness to resume dialogue with Pyongyang, though there has been no response from North Korea.

What is The Grand Order of Mugunghwa?

• The Grand Order of Mugunghwa is the highest national order awarded by the Republic of Korea (South Korea).
• It is primarily awarded to the President of South Korea.

It may also be awarded to,

• The President’s spouse,
• Heads or former heads of state of South Korea’s allies,
• And their spouses.
• The award honors “Outstanding meritorious services in the interest of promoting the development and security of the Republic of Korea.”

Name and Symbolism

• The order is named after South Korea’s national flower, the hibiscus (mugunghwa).
• The mugunghwa is native to the Korean peninsula.
• It carries great cultural and historical significance in Korean tradition, symbolizing eternity, resilience, and beauty.

Appearance and Composition

According to law, the Grand Order of Mugunghwa consists of,

• An insignia worn around the neck,
• A badge affixed to a sash worn over the shoulder,
• A star, and, if necessary,
• A ribbon and lapel badge.
• It may be made from gold, silver, ruby, and amethyst.
• As of 2013, the production cost of the order was approximately 20 million won (≈ $19,000 USD).

Key Takeaways

• Event Date: October 29, 2025
• Award: Grand Order of Mugunghwa – South Korea’s highest national honour
• Recipient: Donald Trump – First U.S. president to receive it
• Presented By: President Lee Jae Myung
• Venue: Gyeongju, former capital of the Silla Kingdom
• Symbolic Gift: Replica of the golden Cheonmachong crown