Orders, decorations, and medals of South Korea  The South Korean honors system includes orders of merit, medals of honor, and commendations conferred by the South Korean government onto its citizens and foreigners. Orders of Merit () and Medals of Honor () are given by the president of South Korea to people who "rendered distinguished services" to the country. The first honor, the Grand Order of Mugunghwa, was established in 1949. Commendations () are given to people by the president of South Korea, prime minister of South Korea, or various government ministries in recognition of acts of public service or excellence in certain fields.