- Time Period: Pre-WW1
- Institution: 17 April 1900
- Country: Korean Empire (Korea)
The Order of the Gold Cheok (Kumch’ok Taehunjang, also known as the Order of the Golden Ruler) was instituted on 17th April 1900 by Emperor Kwangmu, the last King of Joseon and the first Emperor of Korea.
The Order was conferred on heads of state, royalty only and very rarely on certain selected individuals that already held the Grand Order of the Auspicious Stars. The Order of the Gold Cheok was awarded in only one class: Grand Collar with Grand Cordon.
The Grand Order of the Gold Cheok or Golden Ruler Design
The Order consists of a large silver sash badge with four arms, each of them composed of groups three large white rays, plus a clusters of five rays in each quadrant. There are also three Hibiscus blossoms in white enamels in each quadrant, which form a surrounding laurel. The medal measures 66.7 mm (wide) x 108 mm (high, including suspension)
The obverse presents, in the center, the taeguk in blue and red enamels. There are silver rulers extending from center along each arm. The reverse is mirrored.
The suspension is a horizontally pierced ball with a large Hibiscus flower and five green enameled leaves.
