The order can be awarded to individuals as well as organizations for service to the cause of the Juche ideology and socialism.

Recipients include people who have contributed to the space and nuclear programs of the country.

The history of the order dates back to 2012, when it was instituted on 3 February, the 70th birthday of Kim Jong Il.

[3] The order can be awarded to individuals (government officials or workers) or to military units, businesses, or social organizations "who have made distinguished service in the drive to accomplish the revolutionary cause of Juche, the cause of building a thriving socialist nation.

The back has the text: "Order of Kim Jong Il" along with a serial number and a pin.