K-pop superstar G-Dragon has made history by becoming the youngest person ever to receive South Korea’s prestigious Okgwan Order of Cultural Merit. The BIGBANG leader received this high government honor at the 16th Korea Popular Culture and Arts Awards on October 23, 2025, recognizing his two decades of contributions to Korean culture and his role in spreading K-pop globally.
The Historic Award Ceremony
The ceremony took place at Seoul’s National Theater of Korea, hosted by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism. This award represents the South Korean government’s highest recognition for contributions to the development of the popular culture and arts industry.
G-Dragon received the Jade Crown (Okgwan) Order of Cultural Merit, one of the highest honors in the cultural arts field. He was honored alongside veteran voice actor Bae Han-seong and the late comedian Jeon Yoo-sung. The award celebrates figures who have made significant national and societal contributions across fields like music, performance, broadcasting, and the arts.
Appearing nervous yet proud on stage, G-Dragon introduced himself as “the youngest recipient, singer G-Dragon.” This recognition solidifies his status as a generation-defining artist and cultural icon in the Korean entertainment industry.
G-Dragon’s Reflective Acceptance Speech
During his emotional acceptance speech, G-Dragon reflected on his extraordinary journey from childhood dreams to international stardom. He shared heartfelt memories of his career beginnings and looked toward the future with excitement.
“When I was six, my mom took me to an audition. That’s where it all began. Since then, I’ve been chasing the same dream. In my teens, I achieved my dream of becoming a singer. In my twenties, I received awards. In my thirties, I’ve now received this Okgwan Order of Cultural Merit. Now, I’m really looking forward to my forties.”
The artist expressed deep appreciation for the senior artists who inspired him, describing them as “shining stars” that guided his path. He also emphasized the significance of this honor coinciding with BIGBANG’s upcoming 20th anniversary, showing his continued loyalty to the group that launched his career.
“There are so many senior artists who made me dream. They were shining stars to me every single day. I grew up listening to their songs, and now I’ve become one of those stars myself. Next year marks BIGBANG’s 20th anniversary, and I want to share this honor with my members.”
The Power of Dreams and Future Vision
G-Dragon concluded his speech with a powerful message about the importance of dreaming, sharing a personal ritual that has guided his philosophy both in life and career.
“I often say, ‘Good night, and sweet dreams.’ There’s power in those words. A good dream can one day become reality, or lead to a new dream. Even if it doesn’t come true, the act of dreaming makes life shine. I hope you all have good dreams tonight.”
He also spoke about the universal language of music, stating, “I believe music has a force that can be felt even when language doesn’t reach.” This belief has driven his innovative approach to performance and production throughout his career.
Fan Reactions
Fans worldwide celebrated the historic achievement across social media platforms. Supporters highlighted the significance of G-Dragon being recognized as the first artist in history to never fail to take No. 1 with any group, unit, or solo album over his 20-year career.
Comments ranged from “Totally well-deserved, congrats congrats” to “Considering the influence G-Dragon has had on the K-Pop industry, it’s only right he got it. He’s on another level.” Many emphasized how the award properly recognized his lasting impact on the industry.
- โTotally well-deserved, congrats congrats.โ
- โThe host introduced him as โthe first artist in history whoโs never failed to take No. 1 in any group, unit, or solo album over 20 years.โ That was amazing. Huge congrats.โ
- โAnd the way he talked about his dreams and mentioned his 40s in the speech? So classy.โ
- โGD really deserves it, yeah.โ
- โ๐๐ป๐๐ป๐๐ป๐๐ป๐๐ป๐๐ป๐๐ป๐๐ป๐๐ป๐๐ป๐๐ป๐๐ป๐๐ป๐๐ป๐๐ป๐๐ป๐๐ปโ
- โThat introduction was so cool. Congrats! ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐โ
- โHe deserves to win it ten times over.โ
- โHe truly deserves itโฆโ
- โCongrats congrats, thatโs so awesome.โ
- โCongratulations! Itโs amazing how heโs still thriving even after a break.โ
- โConsidering the influence G-Dragon has had on the K-Pop industry, itโs only right he got it. Heโs on another level.โ
- โSay what you will, but itโs true heโs had a huge impact on K-Pop.โ
The timing of this honor comes during an active period for G-Dragon, who recently served as an ambassador for the 2025 APEC Summit in Gyeongju and is currently conducting his “รbermensch” world tour across Asia, the Americas, and Europe.
This prestigious government recognition places G-Dragon in an elite group of cultural contributors and acknowledges K-pop’s significant role in spreading Korean culture worldwide. His journey from a six-year-old audition candidate to the youngest recipient of the Okgwan Order of Cultural Merit represents a milestone for both the artist and the Korean music industry.
Also Read: Galaxy Corporation Sees Major Profit Growth in 2025 Thanks to G-Dragon
Source:ย Chosun Ilboย andย theqoo
