Seoul: Late actress Kim Ji-mi has been posthumously awarded South Korea's highest cultural decoration, the Golden Order of Cultural Merit, in recognition of her significant contributions to the Korean film industry, the culture ministry announced on Sunday. Culture Minister Chae Hwi-young personally visited Kim's memorial at the Seoul Film Center to confer the prestigious award.

According to Yonhap News Agency, Kim Ji-mi, who passed away last Sunday in Los Angeles at the age of 85, had been battling heart problems. She was celebrated by the culture ministry as a "symbol of the film culture of an era," noted for her dual appeal to both popular and artistic audiences. Her contributions were pivotal in laying the foundation for Korean film production and fostering industry growth.

The ministry emphasized her practical role in safeguarding the Korean film ecosystem and enhancing its institutional framework. Kim's previous accolades include the Silver Order of Cultural Merit, which she received in 2016.

Kim Ji-mi's illustrious career began with her debut in Kim Ki-young's 1957 film "The Twilight Train." She quickly rose to fame with her role in Hong Seong-ki's "The Star in My Heart" in 1958. Throughout her career, she worked with prominent Korean filmmakers like Kim Soo-yong and Im Kwon-taek, earning numerous awards both domestically and internationally.

Beyond acting, Kim expanded her impact on the film industry by founding Jimi Film, a production company, and serving on the Korean Film Council. Her extensive body of work spans more than 700 films, solidifying her legacy in the Korean cinematic landscape.