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`The metric system of weights and measures, which is the most logical of all the methods of weighing and measuring now in use in the fields of science, industry and commercial activities, originated in France in the middle of the 17th century when a campaign for unifying weights and measures was launched in that county. It was later developed into an international system toward the end of the 18th century through a joint effort and research by scholars of various European countries except great Britain. The metric system began to be used officially in France after a law concerning the metric system was enacted in 1995, and then became an international system for weights and measures in 1875 as 16 countries, including France, signed the International, convention on the metric system. There are 7 basic units­length(m), weight(kg), time(s), electric current(A), temperature(K), quantity(mol) and intensity of light(cd) and two reserve units­plane angle(rad) and solid angle(rs)- used in the metric system. In Korea, too, the metric method has been in use since January 1, 1964 following he enactment of a pertinent law, contributing a great deal to the development of our National economy. In an effort to publicize, and further promote the use of, the metric system which has contributed much to the development of industrial and commercial activities of mankind, the Ministry of Communication is issuing this commemorative stamps on the occasion of observing the centenary of the International Metric Convention.`