(수교훈장修交勳章). Instituted in 1963. Multi-piece construction, insignia in silver gilt with red, white and blue enamels, along with incorporating four violet glass beads, the insignia mounted to four-pointed star base, each star point with fifteen emanating rays, award number impressed "317" on the reverse cartouche, measuring 61 mm (w) x 82.5 mm (h) inclusive of its crossed feathers and wreath suspension, intact enamels, very light contact, on its original full-length neck ribbon, near extremely fine.
Footnote: The Order of Diplomatic Service Merit was instituted on July 25, 1963, amended in 1967, with the highest grade added in 1973. It is awarded for meritorious service to the extension of national prestige overseas and to the promotion of friendship with other nations, in six grades: with Class 1 being divided into 2 grades, the first only being awarded to Korean diplomats: I Class Grade I Grand Gwanghwa (Badge and Star), I Class Grade II Grand Gwanghwa (Badge and Star), II Class Heung-In Medal (Badge and Star), III Class Sungrye Medal, IV Class Chang-Eui Medal and V Class Sugjeong Medal.