RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesia’s President Prabowo Subianto received South Korea’s highest state honor, the Grand Order of Mugunghwa, underscoring the strengthening of bilateral relations during his first state visit to Seoul.

The award was presented directly by President Lee Jae Myung at a Friendship Event held at the Garden of Sangchungjae, Presidential Palace, on Wednesday, April 1, 2026.

According to the Presidential Secretariat in Jakarta, the honor recognizes President Prabowo’s role in advancing cooperation and elevating the partnership between Indonesia and South Korea to a Special Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

The Grand Order of Mugunghwa, established in 1949, is traditionally bestowed upon the President of South Korea and their spouse, as well as foreign heads of state or former leaders who have made significant contributions to Korea’s development and security.

Past recipients include Queen Elizabeth II (1986), King Hussein of Jordan (1983), and French President Emmanuel Macron (2018).

President Prabowo’s visit also marked a milestone in bilateral cooperation, with both leaders agreeing to broaden strategic ties. The two countries signed 10 memorandums of understanding across various sectors, reflecting a shared commitment to deepen collaboration in trade, technology, and security.

“We are both Pacific nations and trading nations. We need strong relations for the prosperity of our economies, and perhaps we can complement each other,” President Prabowo said during talks with President Lee, as quoted by Antara.

He emphasized that South Korea’s advances in industry, science, and technology could synergize with Indonesia’s abundant natural resources and large market.

Beyond economics, the discussions highlighted the importance of stability and peace amid global uncertainty. President Prabowo stressed that solid partnerships like Indonesia-South Korea are increasingly vital in navigating today’s challenges.

The award ceremony and agreements together signal a renewed chapter in Indonesia-Korea relations, blending symbolic recognition with concrete steps toward deeper cooperation. ***