Noted personalities in the arts and entertainment industry will be honored for their contributions to the advancement of Korean popular culture.

President Lee Myung-bak chaired a Cabinet meeting Tuesday and decided to award Orders of Cultural Merits to film director Kim Ki-duk, screenwriter Kim Su-hyeon, actress Jo Min-su, actor Lee Jeong-jin and singer PSY.

The film "Pietà," directed by Kim and starring Jo and Lee, won the top prize at this year's Venice International Film Festival, the Golden Lion award.

PSY's runaway hit single "Gangnam Style" has stirred up a global sensation, and writer Kim Su-hyeon has been the force behind numerous hit TV drama series.