Cho Chihoon spent over half century of his life in Japan contributing to Japan's Go. And Japanese government awarded him Purple Rose(紫綬) medal. This medal is given to people who contributed to Literature, Art, Sports and cultural activity. This year, Medal were given to 21 peoples.

In August 1962, Cho(6 years old) moved to Japan to study go in Kitani Dojo. In 1968, he(11 years and 9 months) became 1p. He became the youngest 1p at that time. He held three majors(Kisei, Meijin and Honinbo) same year 4 times. And he accumulated 74 tournament titles( still record).

In interview, he said that it is his honor to receive this medal same as his teacher Kitani. Also he said he want to set his goal to reach top.

*** Pardon my very poor translation.