Accurate and timely weather forecasts for a specific region call for both access to data observed simultaneously from networks of several meteorological stations in and around the region, and the rapid exchange of up-to-the-minute meteorological information worldwide. To facilitate international cooperation on this issue, the International Meteorological Organization (IMO), a predecessor of the WMO, was created as an NGO at the inaugural General Assembly of the IMO, which met in Vienna in September 1873. In 1950, the WMO was established to replace the IMO, giving further impetus to international cooperation. The WMO Convention came into force on March 23rd of the same year, and March 23 has been observed as World Meteorological Day since then.

From weather prediction to air pollution research, including climate change related activities, ozone layer depletion studies, and tropical storm forecasting, the WMO coordinates the collection and analysis of global meteorological data to allow increasingly prompt and accurate weather information. The WMO’ s activities contribute to the safety of life and property, the socio economic development of nations, and the protection of the environment. Currently the WMO boasts 185 member countries. Korea was admitted as the 68th member in 1956 and became an active participant in a variety of initiatives sponsored by the WMO.