Supreme Order of Hibiscus
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The Supreme Order of Hibiscus is the highest decoration awarded by the government of Republic of Korea. It can be awarded to the individuals who are serving or have previously served as the Head of State of South Korea and its allies, as well as to his/her spouse.
After their conviction for treason in 1996, the former presidents Chun Doo-hwan and Roh Tae-Woo were ordered to return the award along with other State decoration that they have awarded to themselves. While Chun had agreed to return the awards, he and Roh have yet to actually return them.
Before his inauguration, President Roh Moo-Hyun decided not to accept the award as is traditional, but to receive it from the incoming president upon his own departure from the office.
