The present invention provides an MMP-inhibitory composition comprising chalcone or its derivatives. They inhibit the MMPs in collagenase subfamily as well as those in gelatinase subfamily. The MMP inhibitory activity of chalcone derivatives was similar to or greater than that of parent compound, chalcone. Chalcone or its derivatives of the present invention inhibit activity of matrix metalloproteinase, so that it can be applied to treat and prevent diseases related to matrix metalloproteinase.