A History of Physical Oceanographic Research in the Japan/East Sea

Abstract

Oceanographic research in the Japan/East Sea (JES) has a history similar to other marginal seas that are surrounded by countries that play a central role in world economics and politics (Figure However, due to the specifi cs of the region's history, its varied cultures, and the different languages of the nations in the region, most regional oceanographic research has been carried out independently by each country. This research has often taken place without complete knowledge of neighboring nations, although in recent years a new degree of international cooperation in the region has emerged.