Korea Aerospace Research Institute (KARI) said on the 4th that former KARI President Lee Sang-ryool received the Chevalier rank of the Légion d'honneur from the French government in recognition of his contributions to Korea-France space cooperation and the advancement of science and technology.
The Légion d'honneur is the highest honor awarded by the French government and is bestowed on individuals who have made significant contributions to the advancement of France and the international community in fields such as science, industry, and culture.
On the 28th, Ambassador Philippe Bertoux, representing the French government in conferring the decoration, said, "This medal honors former President Lee's dedication to the development and innovation of science and technology and to the friendship between France and the Republic of Korea," adding, "As the two countries mark the 140th anniversary of diplomatic ties in 2026 and have selected space as a core area for future cooperation, he is an important figure in bilateral scientific collaboration."
Former President Lee said, "This medal is not a personal honor but one for all researchers who have dedicated themselves to Korea's space development and Korea-France cooperation," emphasizing, "Space exploration is not the challenge of a single nation but a journey for all humanity, and I hope Korea and France will move together to the moon, Mars, and beyond."
Since joining KARI in 1986, former President Lee has led major projects in Korea's space development, including Multi-Purpose Practical Satellites 1, 2, 3, and 5, the Geostationary Multi-Functional Satellite, and the lunar exploration program. During his tenure as KARI president from 2021 to early this year, he is credited with successfully leading the launch of the Korea Space Launch Vehicle "Nuri" and the mission of Korea's first lunar orbiter "Danuri."