This award recognizes those individuals who are likely to become Korea's future leaders and have performed exemplary talents or outstanding meritorious service.
Beginning in 2001, the Government of Korea entitled the Award for Outstanding Talent who will lead 21st Century.
[2] In 2008, the President of Korea Lee Myung-bak established the Talent Medal of Korea, with a quota of 100 awards per year, replaced the former Award for Outstanding Talent who will lead 21st Century.
[4] Notable recipients included Son Yeon Jae and Yuna Kim.
[5] Following severe critiques from non-scientists and politicians, criticized this award is mostly bestowed to scientists and inventors, the Talent Medal of Korea was replaced by the Talent Award of Korea with the same quota, beginning in 2014.