The month of October has been observed as "Cultural Month", and the 20th of October as "Cultural Day". On this day, governmental as well as civic organizations, have sponsored or joined in various cultural and artistic events and award presentations.

This year, 1978, is the concluding year of the first five-year plan and the year during which the Second Five-Year Culture and Arts Promotion Plan (1979-1983) is to be worked out. Although the development of material civilization, contributes a great deal to the affluence and prosperity of mankind, it is apt to incur a state of dehumanization. Culture and arts provide the very means by which man can move forward toward a more perfect individual.

Traditional culture is the root of the nation, and the spiritual pillar supporting national development. Therefore, a nation should be proud of its culture and try to make whatever contribution it can to the development of human culture by creating new culture based on its traditional culture. By doing so, it will enrich its spiritual life, with the benefit accruing therefrom being shared by all other nations.

In observance of the "Month of Culture" and "Cultural Day", the Ministry of Communications is issuing a commemorative postage stamp in the hope that all mankind will not only benefit from, but also will endeavor all the more earnestly to make further contribution to, the progress and preservation of culture.