RIBBON:  Dark green represents the land of Korea, blue indicates overseas service and commitment to achieving peace.  Gold denotes excellence, white symbolizes idealism and integrity. 

OBVERSE: 

            Description:  A bronze-color disc bearing a Korean "circle dragon" within an encircling scroll inscribed "Korea Defense Service Medal" with, in base, two sprigs, laurel to dexter side, bamboo to sinister.

            Symbolism:  The four-clawed dragon is a traditional symbol of Korea and represents intelligence and strength of purpose.  The sprig of laurel denotes honorable endeavor and victory, the bamboo refers to Asia.    

REVERSE: 

            Description:  A representation of the land mass of Korea surmounted by two swords points up saltirewise within a circlet garnished of five points.

            Symbolism:  The swords placed saltirewise over a map of Korea signify defense of freedom in that country and the readiness to engage in combat to that end.  The circlet enclosing the device recalls the forms of five-petal symbols common in Korean armory.