[Asia Economy Reporter Moon Chaeseok] The 'Measurement Day,' established to commemorate King Sejong's establishment of length and volume measurement systems on October 26 over 500 years ago, has marked its 50th anniversary this year.
The Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy's National Institute of Technology and Standards held a government award ceremony on the 26th at EL Tower in Yangjae, Seoul, to celebrate the '2020 Measurement Day.' The commemorative ceremony has been held since 1970.
The institute explained that October 26 was designated as a commemorative day each year to share with the public the importance of the measurement industry in economic and industrial development.
On October 26, 1446, King Sejong established the measurement system by creating the standard units of length called 'ja' and volume units called 'mal' and 'doe.'
At this award ceremony, Executive Director Kim Gilsik of the Calibration Technology Institute received the 'Bronze Tower Order of Industrial Service Merit,' and CEO Seo Myeongsu of Unitree was awarded the 'Industrial Medal.'
Executive Director Kim contributed to the development of the UV Meter calibration system used in display manufacturing processes.
CEO Seo developed a single measuring instrument combining the functions of a dial gauge and a new scale, which are basic measuring tools in industrial sites.
Additionally, the Korea Testing Laboratory, a meritorious organization, received the Presidential Citation, and Korean Air was awarded the Prime Minister's Citation. A total of 27 awards were presented.
An award ceremony was also held for 39 winners of the children's poster and UCC contests and the measurement excellence case contest, which were organized to encourage the correct use of units such as 'square meters (㎡)' and 'kilograms (kg)' instead of 'pyeong' and 'don.'
Lee Seungwoo, Director of the National Institute of Technology and Standards, expressed gratitude for the industry's efforts in contributing quietly to the development of the measurement industry despite difficult conditions.
Director Lee urged, "Since measurement technology leads to strong competitiveness in promising new industries such as artificial intelligence (AI) robots and autonomous vehicles, I hope continuous efforts will be made in the development of measurement technology."
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.
