What is the Yellow Sea?

1. The Yellow Sea is a vital maritime region situated between the eastern coast of China and the western coast of the Korean Peninsula.
2. It serves as a crucial economic and environmental zone, featuring vast tidal flats and coastal wetlands that support both marine ecosystems and industrial development.
3. Total Area: Approx. 380,000 km²
4. Average Depth: 45m (Maximum depth below 100m)
5. Tidal Range: One of the largest tidal variations globally, contributing to the development of extensive tidal flats.

Key Features of the Yellow Sea

1. One of the Densest Maritime Regions in the World

1. Home to 10% of the world’s population, with major rivers such as the Yellow River and Yangtze River in China, and the Han River in Korea flowing into the sea.
2. A hub for industrial and economic activities, including ports, fisheries, and marine energy industries.
3. A critical global trade and shipping route, connecting China, Korea, and Japan.

2. Significant Tidal Variations

1. One of the world’s largest tidal ranges, exceeding 9 meters in some areas.
2. This contributes to the formation of vast tidal flats through active sediment deposition.
3. The West Coast of Korea is home to one of the four largest tidal flat systems globally, alongside the eastern coast of Canada, Georgia’s coastline in the U.S., and the Amazon River delta.

3. Major Rivers Flowing into the Yellow Sea

1. China: Yellow River (Huang He), Yangtze River (Chang Jiang)
2. Korea: Han River, Geum River, Yeongsan River

These major rivers deliver enormous amounts of freshwater and sediment into the Yellow Sea, shaping marine ecosystems and influencing environmental changes.

Geomorphological Characteristics of the Yellow Sea

1. Shallow Waters and a Vast Continental Shelf The average depth of the Yellow Sea is only 45 meters, making it relatively shallow.
2. Extensive continental shelf supports high marine productivity due to sunlight penetration reaching the seafloor.
3. Rich in sediments, fostering the growth of tidal flats and coastal ecosystems.
4. Extensive Tidal Flats and Wetlands Recognized as one of the world’s most important coastal wetlands.
5. Tidal flat areas stretch across the western coast of Korea and the eastern coast of China.
6. Ecological significance: Provides habitats for migratory birds, breeding grounds, and marine life sanctuaries.