South Korean President Awards Trump Grand Order of Mugunghwa with Gold Crown

President Donald Trump was presented with a replica of an ancient golden crown and South Korea's highest honor, the Grand Order of Mugunghwa, by South Korean President Lee Jae Myung during a diplomatic visit. The crown is a replica of one of six gold crowns excavated from royal tombs in Gyeongju, symbolizing the divine connection between heavenly authority and earthly sovereignty, as well as the spirit of peace historically brought to the Korean Peninsula. Trump became the first American leader ever to receive this prestigious honor, recognizing his efforts toward peace on the Korean Peninsula during his first term. The ceremony included symbolic gestures such as a gold-adorned dessert celebrating the Korea-U.S. alliance, and the gifts were given in anticipation of continued peace and prosperity. Although there were protests against Trump earlier in the U.S. with slogans like "No Kings," Trump appeared to appreciate the crown and medal without indicating any monarch-like ambitions. The presentation also coincided with the announcement of a new trade deal between the U.S. and South Korea, further strengthening bilateral relations.