Late Neogene–Quaternary submarine mass wasting along the margins of the Ulleung Basin, East Sea: Geomorphologic controls and geohazard potential

Abstract

Seismic reflection data from the Ulleung Basin, East Sea, provide extensive evidence for Plio-Quaternary mass transport deposits (MTDs). We identified 23 MTDs embedded in 7 MTD bearing seismic units (U1–U7, from oldest to youngest) and estimated their geometric characteristics and source areas. The thicknesses and volumes of these MTDs range between 25 m and 392 m, and 13 km3–550 km3, respectively. The depth of the acoustic basement below sea level varies between about 100 m in the western margins to over 5900 m in the central part of the basin and highlights eight structural highs in the central and southern parts of the basin. These structural highs had a major role in controlling the pathway and distribution of the MTDs in the basin. In general, the thickest MTD units are sourced from the southern parts of the basin and the volume of these MTDs has remained relatively constant throughout the Plio-Quaternary. The seismic reflection data also reveal about 50 m high slide/slump scars formed on the seafloor by the latest submarine landslides which mainly concentrate on the southern and western margins of the basin. High-sedimentation rates and pore pressure build-up are likely the predominant factor controlling initiation of slope failures in the southern margin. Tectonics and gas hydrates likely play a role, too. The initial water depth of submarine landslides and volume and runout of the MTDs originating from the southern margin imply significant geohazard to the region.