Korea will end the commercial use of traditional weights and measures like pyeong and don. Those who use them in contracts, ads and products face a fine of W500,000 (US$1=W957). Real estate contracts must use the international standard measurement of square meter (1 pyeong = 3.3 sq.m), and the weight of gold must be marked in grams (1 don = 3.75 g). The Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Energy said Sunday it will take steps encouraging the use of international standard weights and measures and crack down on violators starting in July next year.

However, the units yard and pound, which are used for golfing and bowling, will be allowed for the time being given international practices. But owners of new golf courses will be encouraged to use meters for their measurement, the ministry said. The ministry will ask the Korea Association of Standards & Testing Organizations and local governments to identify violators from July after publicizing the measures in the media until June.

(englishnews@chosun.com )