South Korea Gives Trump Its Highest Honor and a Golden Crown

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung will award U.S. President Donald Trump the country’s top medal on Wednesday, along with a replica of an ancient golden crown. The gesture comes as the two leaders work to strengthen ties and tackle trade issues.

Trump arrived at Incheon International Airport to a grand welcome: U.S. and South Korean fighter jets flew overhead, a military band played “YMCA,” and soldiers fired a 21-gun salute. The warm reception set the stage for a busy day of ceremonies and talks.

The main honor is the Grand Order of Mugunghwa, South Korea’s highest award. It’s named after the mugunghwa flower, a symbol of resilience. Lee’s office called Trump a “peacemaker” for the Korean Peninsula, pointing to his earlier meetings with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. Those talks didn’t fully succeed, but South Korea still appreciates the effort. A statement said the medal recognizes “lasting contributions to peace.”

• South Korea honors Trump with top medal and golden crown for peace efforts
• Trump receives South Korea’s Grand Order of Mugunghwa amid trade talks
• Seoul awards Trump highest honor, golden crown in show of diplomatic ties

Trump will also receive a copy of the golden crown from the Cheonmachong tomb, a 1,500-year-old treasure from the Silla Kingdom. During a visit to a museum in Gyeongju, officials explained that the crown stands for peace, prosperity, and strong partnerships. Its design features horse shapes, symbols of speed and success.

Beyond the gifts, the visit is about business. Trump and Lee will discuss lowering U.S. tariffs on South Korean goods, a key concern for Seoul. They’ll share a working lunch with Korean dishes and a nod to Trump—Thousand Island dressing. Later, leaders from Vietnam, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Thailand, and Singapore will join a dinner. These leaders adjusted their plans to meet Trump before the larger APEC summit.

Analysts say the honors are strategic. “Praising Trump’s past diplomacy helps South Korea push for better trade terms,” said Kim Min-seok, a policy expert in Seoul.

Also Read: Trump Visits South Korea for Trade Talks as North Fires Missile

Trump leaves Thursday. The medal and crown will remain as reminders of a partnership that faces new challenges, from North Korea’s missiles to shifting global trade.