Recently, G-DRAGON shared on his Instagram a post stating "Recipient of the 16th Korean Popular Culture and Arts Awards Cultural Merit Medal" along with a photo.
The photo reveals G-DRAGON at the award ceremony holding the certificate. In the black-and-white image, he is seen with neatly styled hair, wearing a black tuxedo paired with a bow tie, exuding a neat yet charismatic presence. The medal is pinned on his left chest, and he holds the 'Cultural Merit Medal' certificate in one hand, while his unique accessories on both hands highlight his fashion sense.
Another photo captures the moment he receives the medal on stage, where G-DRAGON bows respectfully, showcasing his humility. Under the bright stage lights, his brightly colored hair stands out, reflecting his stature as a legendary artist.
Fans reacted with comments like "The coolest," "Always supporting you," "Congratulations," "Fighting," "Kwon Ji-yong is the best," and "So proud and happy."
The 'Korean Popular Culture and Arts Awards,' now in its 16th year, is the nation's highest government accolade for artists in fields such as acting, music, comedy, voice acting, broadcasting, and performance. It honors those who have significantly contributed to cultural and artistic development, enhancing culture and national progress.
The 2025 awardees include six Cultural Merit Medal recipients, seven teams for the Presidential Commendation, eight teams for the Prime Minister's Commendation, and ten teams for the Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism's Commendation. Alongside G-DRAGON, the late Jeon Yoo-sung and voice actor Bae Han-sung also received the Ok-gwan Cultural Merit Medal. G-DRAGON is also set to serve as an ambassador for the '2025 APEC Summit' in Gyeongju from October 31 to November 1.
Meanwhile, a past exclusive report revealed that the value of a building in Cheongdam-dong, Gangnam, Seoul, purchased by G-DRAGON for 8.8 billion KRW, has increased to 17.3 billion KRW. The building, acquired in 2017, spans from a basement to six floors above ground, with a land area of approximately 96 pyeong. It is reported that G-DRAGON bought the property under his name with 5.85 billion KRW in cash and a 3 billion KRW loan.
Reporter Chaeryeong Lim, TenAsia syjj426@tenasia.co.kr