What is the East China Sea and by what international body is its formal name designated?

The East China Sea is a marginal sea of the Western Pacific Ocean, situated directly offshore from East China. While China refers to the body of water along its eastern coast as the 'East Sea' (Dōng Hǎi), the formal name 'East China Sea' is designated and used internationally by the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO).

What are the approximate area and general depth characteristics of the East China Sea?

The East China Sea covers an area of roughly 1,249,000 square kilometers (482,000 sq mi). Most of this sea is shallow, with nearly three-fourths of its area being less than 200 meters (660 ft) deep. Its average depth is 350 meters (1,150 ft), but it reaches a maximum depth of 2,716 meters (8,911 ft) in the Okinawa Trough.

What are the geographical boundaries of the East China Sea and which major landmasses border it?

The East China Sea is bounded on the east and southeast by the middle portion of the first island chain, which includes the Japanese island of Kyushu and the Ryukyu Islands. To the south, it is bordered by the island of Taiwan, and to the west, by the Asian continent, specifically mainland China. Countries and territories with borders on the sea, listed clockwise from north, include South Korea, Japan, Taiwan, and China.

How does the East China Sea connect to other major bodies of water?

The East China Sea connects to the Sea of Japan in the northeast through the Korea Strait. In the north, its extension between the Korean Peninsula and mainland China is the Yellow Sea, separated by an imaginary line from South Korea's Jeju Island to Qidong at the Yangtze River estuary. To the southwest, it connects with the South China Sea via the Taiwan Strait, and to the southeast, it links to the Philippine Sea through various gaps between the Ryukyu Islands, such as the Tokara Strait and Miyako Strait.

How does the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) define the overall limits of the East China Sea?

The International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) defines the limits of the East China Sea with specific geographical points. Its southern limit extends from Fuki Kaku (northern Formosa) to Kiushan Tao (Turnabout Island), then to Haitan Tao's southern point (25°25' N), and westward to the Fukien coast. It also includes a line from Santyo (northeastern Formosa) to Yonakuni Island's western point, and then to Haderuma Sima (24°03′ N, 123°47′ E). The eastern limit runs from Haderuma Sima, encompassing the Miyako Retto to Miyako Sima's eastern point, then to Okinan Kaku (southern Okinawa Sima), through Okinawa Sima to Ada-Ko Sima, to Kikai Sima's eastern point (28°20' N), through Tanegra Sima (30°30' N) to its northern point, and finally to Hi-Saki (31°17' N) in Kyusyu. The northern limit stretches from Nomo Saki (32°35' N) in Kyusyu to Hukae Sima's southern point (Goto Retto), through this island to Ose Saki (Cape Goto), and to Hunan Kan (southern Saisyu To/Quelpart), through this island to its western extreme, and along the parallel of 33°17' North to the mainland. The western limit is defined by the mainland of China.

What is the largest river that flows into the East China Sea?

The Yangtze River, also known as Chang Jiang, is identified as the largest river flowing into the East China Sea. This river is one of the longest in Asia and plays a significant role in the hydrology and ecology of the sea.

What are some notable islands and submerged reefs found in the East China Sea?

One notable island mentioned in the East China Sea is Tong Island. Additionally, the northern part of the East China Sea contains a cluster of submerged reefs, including Socotra Rock (also known as Suyan Rock or Ieodo), Hupijiao Rock, and Yajiao Rock. Submerged reefs are underwater rock formations that can pose navigational hazards and are often points of territorial interest.

Which submerged reef in the East China Sea is a subject of an Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) dispute between China and South Korea?

Socotra Rock, also referred to as Suyan Rock or Ieodo, is a submerged reef in the northern East China Sea that is a subject of an EEZ dispute between the People's Republic of China and South Korea. South Korea has constructed the Ieodo Ocean Research Station on this reef, leading to objections from China regarding its EEZ rights.

What are the various names for the East China Sea in Chinese, Japanese, and Indonesian, and how have they evolved?

In Chinese, the sea is called the 'East Sea' (Dōng Hǎi), a name that holds cultural significance as one of the Four Seas in Chinese literature. Until World War II, the Japanese referred to it as 東支那海 (Higashi Shina Kai), meaning 'East Shina Sea.' In 2004, the Japanese Foreign Ministry officially switched to 東シナ海 (also pronounced Higashi Shina Kai), which uses different characters but maintains the same pronunciation, becoming the standard usage in Japan. In Indonesia, the sea was commonly known as 'Laut Cina Timur' (East China Sea) until 2014, when the Indonesian government officially changed its usage from 'Cina' to 'Tiongkok,' making 'Laut Tiongkok Timur' the standard, though many media outlets still use the former name.

What historical whaling activity occurred in the East China Sea?

American whaleships engaged in cruising for right whales in the East China Sea between the years 1849 and 1892. This period marks a significant era of commercial whaling by American vessels in various parts of the world's oceans.

Which countries and territories are involved in Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) disputes in the East China Sea?

The East China Sea is a region of complex geopolitical interests, with Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) disputes involving China (PRC), Japan, Taiwan, and South Korea. These disputes often arise from overlapping claims to maritime resources and territorial waters.

How does China justify its EEZ claim in the East China Sea under UNCLOS?

China justifies its EEZ claim by considering the natural prolongation of its continental shelf, advocating that its EEZ extends as far as the Okinawa Trough. China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has stated that this natural prolongation extends beyond 200 nautical miles from its territorial sea baselines, asserting that this aligns with relevant UNCLOS provisions that support its right to the natural shelf. In 2012, China formally submitted its continental shelf outer limits to the UN.

How does Japan's EEZ claim in the East China Sea differ from China's?

Japan's EEZ claim differs from China's in that Japan asserts rights over approximately 40,000 square kilometers of the disputed territory, arguing it falls within 200 nautical miles (370 km) from its coast. Consequently, Japan has proposed a Median line division of the EEZ to resolve the overlapping claims.

What natural gas discovery in the East China Sea led to heightened disputes between China and Japan?

In 1995, the People's Republic of China (PRC) discovered an undersea natural gas field in the East China Sea, specifically the Chunxiao gas field, which led to heightened disputes with Japan. This discovery highlighted the potential for valuable energy resources in the contested waters.

What is the specific nature of the dispute over the Chunxiao gas field between China and Japan?

The dispute over the Chunxiao gas field arises because, while the field's rigs are located within China's undisputed EEZ, three or four miles (6 km) west of Japan's proposed median line, Japan believes that the field may tap into reserves that extend underground into the disputed area. Therefore, Japan seeks a share in these natural gas resources, leading to ongoing disagreements despite an earlier agreement for joint development.

What are the estimated natural gas reserves in the Xihu Sag area and when did commercial operations begin?

The gas fields in the Xihu Sag area of the East China Sea, which include Canxue, Baoyunting, Chunxiao, Duanqiao, Wuyunting, and Tianwaitian, are estimated to hold proven reserves of 364 billion cubic feet (BCF) of natural gas. Commercial operations at these fields commenced in 2006.

What was the outcome of the 2008 agreement between China and Japan concerning the Chunxiao gas fields?

In June 2008, China and Japan reached an agreement to jointly develop the Chunxiao gas fields. However, despite this agreement, the two sides have subsequently been unable to agree on the specific methods or details for executing the joint development plan, leaving the dispute unresolved.

Beyond gas fields, what other types of disputes have occurred between China and Japan in the East China Sea?

Beyond the disputes over natural gas fields, China and Japan have also experienced rounds of disputes concerning island ownership in the East China Sea. These territorial disagreements have triggered both official diplomatic protests and civilian demonstrations between the two nations.

What is the core issue of the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) dispute between the PRC and South Korea?

The core issue of the EEZ dispute between the People's Republic of China (PRC) and South Korea concerns Socotra Rock, a submerged reef. While neither country claims the rock itself as territory, South Korea has constructed the Ieodo Ocean Research Station on it, which the PRC has objected to as a breach of its EEZ rights.

What is the People's Republic of China's (PRC) naval strength in its littoral operations sphere compared to the US Navy?

In its sphere of naval operations along its littoral, which includes the East and South China Seas, China currently possesses more naval vessels than the US Navy. This numerical advantage highlights China's significant investment in its naval capabilities in its immediate maritime vicinity.

What has been the US strategic priority regarding naval operations in the Pacific Ocean?

US Presidents Barack Obama and Donald Trump have prioritized US naval operations under the US Indo-Pacific Command. Their strategic goal has been to expand the US sphere of influence in the Pacific Ocean, aiming to counter China's growing strength and ensure readiness for any unforeseen challenges in the future.

What is the primary role of the Chinese Navy in the East China Sea?

The primary role of the Chinese Navy in the East China Sea is significant, particularly in the context of territorial disputes such as the Senkaku (Diaoyutai) Islands issue. It aims to uphold China's ownership of contested lands and safeguard maritime routes.

How does China demonstrate its naval involvement and what strategic priorities does this reflect?

China demonstrates its naval involvement in the East China Sea by deploying naval ships and conducting maritime patrols. This increased naval presence reflects China's strategic priorities to safeguard maritime routes, defend its territorial claims, and project its strength in the region.

How do the Chinese Navy's activities influence regional security dynamics and broader international relations?

The Chinese Navy's activities in the East China Sea significantly impact the naval strategies of neighboring countries and influence maritime cooperation initiatives, thereby contributing to wider regional security dynamics. Furthermore, its involvement highlights the intricate relationship among maritime security, territorial conflicts, and the competition among major powers in the Asia-Pacific area.

What is the significance of the Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force (MSDF) in the East China Sea?

The Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force (MSDF) holds high importance in the East China Sea, particularly in relation to the ongoing Senkaku (Diaoyutai) Islands conflict. Its presence is crucial for Japan's defense and maritime security.

How does Japan enhance its maritime capabilities and what does the MSDF's presence signify?

Japan enhances its maritime capabilities by increasing naval patrols and surveillance in the East China Sea to protect its territorial rights and monitor regional activities. The MSDF's presence underscores Japan's dedication to safeguarding its territorial waters, ensuring maritime security, and upholding international law in the face of maritime disagreements.

What broader role does Japan's MSDF play in regional security?

Japan's Maritime Self-Defense Force (MSDF) plays a broader role in regional security cooperation by engaging in joint naval drills with allies and partners across the Indo-Pacific region. These exercises help to strengthen alliances and improve interoperability among naval forces.

How do the MSDF's actions contribute to stability and deterrence in the East China Sea?

The actions of the Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force (MSDF) in the East China Sea contribute to promoting stability, building confidence among regional actors, and deterring potential security threats. This showcases Japan's proactive stance on maritime security and defense in the Asia-Pacific region.

What factors influence Taiwan's involvement and maritime actions in the East China Sea?

Taiwan's involvement in the East China Sea is influenced by its territorial disputes and strategic concerns, particularly regarding the Senkaku (Diaoyutai) Islands conflict, which Taiwan claims ownership of. While its maritime actions are not as extensive as those of China and Japan, Taiwan maintains a Coast Guard presence for patrolling its waters and managing maritime incidents. Its involvement is also shaped by broader security concerns and its cross-strait relations with China.

How do tensions over the Senkaku (Diaoyutai) Islands affect Taiwan's security and diplomatic approach?

Tensions over the Senkaku (Diaoyutai) Islands significantly impact Taiwan's security outlook and regional stability. This necessitates close monitoring of maritime activities and continuous diplomatic communication with all relevant parties to manage the situation and promote maritime safety in the Asia-Pacific area.

Which countries conduct military exercises in the East China Sea?

Taiwan, Japan, China, and South Korea all conduct military exercises in the East China Sea. These exercises are often a display of national defense capabilities and a means to assert presence in the region.

How is the East China Sea (Donghai) possibly represented in Chinese astronomy?

In Chinese astronomy, the East China Sea, known as 'Donghai' in Chinese, is possibly represented by the star Eta Serpentis. This star is part of the asterism 'Left Wall,' which belongs to the 'Heavenly Market enclosure' in the traditional Chinese constellation system.

What does the provided image of the East China Sea illustrate?

The source material includes an image depicting the East China Sea, which illustrates its surrounding regions, various islands, and adjacent seas. Such maps are essential for understanding the geographical context of the area.

What does the image depicting the East China Sea coast in Cangnan County, Zhejiang, show?

An image in the source material displays a view of the East China Sea coastline in Cangnan County, which is located in China's Zhejiang province. This provides a visual representation of the coastal areas bordering the sea.

What does the image titled 'East China Sea from Yeliou, Taiwan' portray?

The source material presents an image showing the East China Sea as viewed from Yeliou, a distinctive cape located in Taiwan. This offers a perspective of the sea from one of its bordering territories.

What does the image showing the East China Sea near Shanghai depict?

An image in the source material depicts a scene of the East China Sea in the vicinity of Shanghai. This illustrates the proximity of the sea to one of China's major coastal cities and economic hubs.

East China Sea Wiki: East China Sea: Geopolitical Crossroads and Maritime Dynamics

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Defining the Sea

A Marginal Pacific Basin

The East China Sea constitutes a significant marginal sea of the Western Pacific Ocean, situated directly off the eastern coast of China. While China often refers to this body of water as the "East Sea" due to its geographical orientation, the designation "East China Sea" is formally recognized by the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) and is widely adopted in international discourse.^[1]

Dimensions and Depth

This expansive sea encompasses an approximate area of 770,000 square kilometers (300,000 square miles).^[3] A notable characteristic of the East China Sea is its predominantly shallow nature; nearly three-quarters of its expanse maintains a depth of less than 200 meters (660 feet). The average depth is recorded at 350 meters (1,150 feet), though it plunges to a maximum depth of 2,716 meters (8,911 feet) within the profound Okinawa Trough.^[2]

Connections and Borders

The East China Sea is strategically bordered by several key landmasses and connects to other significant maritime regions. To its east and southeast, it is delimited by the central segment of the first island chain, which includes the Japanese island of Kyushu and the Ryukyu Islands. To the south, it meets the island of Taiwan. Hydrologically, it links with the Yellow Sea to the north, the Sea of Japan in the northeast via the Korea Strait, the South China Sea in the southwest through the Taiwan Strait, and the Philippine Sea in the southeast via various passages among the Ryukyu Islands, such as the Tokara and Miyako Straits.

Geographical Features

Surrounding Nations

The East China Sea is a critical maritime space bordered by several nations and territories, each with significant interests in its resources and strategic importance. Clockwise from the north, these include South Korea, Japan (specifically Kyushu and the Ryukyu Islands), Taiwan, and mainland China. This proximity inherently contributes to the complex geopolitical landscape of the region.

Defining the Extent

The International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) provides a precise definition of the East China Sea's limits, delineating its boundaries with specific geographical coordinates and land features. This formal demarcation is crucial for international maritime law and navigation.

The IHO defines the limits of the "Eastern China Sea (Tung Hai)" as follows:^[4]

On the South: The Northern limit of the South China Sea, extending from Fuki Kaku (the North point of Formosa) to Kiushan Tao (Turnabout Island), then to the South point of Haitan Tao (25°25' N), and westward along the parallel of 25°24' North to the coast of Fukien. From Santyo (the Northeastern point of Formosa) to the West point of Yonakuni Island, and thence to Haderuma Sima (24°03′ N, 123°47′ E).
On the East: From Haderuma Sima, a line encompassing the Miyako Retto to the East point of Miyako Sima, and then to Okinan Kaku (the Southern extremity of Okinawa Sima), through this island to Ada-Ko Sima (Sidmouth Island), on to the East point of Kikai Sima (28°20' N), through Tanegra Sima (30°30' N) to its North point, and finally to Hi-Saki (31°17' N) in Kyusyu.
On the North: From Nomo Saki (32°35' N) in Kyusyu to the South point of Hukae Sima (Goto Retto), and through this island to Ose Saki (Cape Goto), and to Hunan Kan (the South point of Saisyu To, or Quelpart), through this island to its Western extreme, and thence along the parallel of 33°17' North to the mainland.
On the West: The mainland of China.

Key Islands and Reefs

The East China Sea is dotted with various islands and features, some of which are central to regional geopolitical discussions. The Yangtze River (Chang Jiang) stands as the largest river discharging into this sea, significantly influencing its hydrology and sediment dynamics.

Notable islands include Tong Island. Additionally, a cluster of submerged reefs in the northern East China Sea holds particular importance:

Socotra Rock: Also known as Suyan Rock or Ieodo, this submerged reef is a point of contention in Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) disputes between the People's Republic of China and South Korea.
Hupijiao Rock (虎皮礁)
Yajiao Rock (鸭礁)

Diverse Naming Conventions

Historical and Cultural Names

The East China Sea is known by various names across different cultures, reflecting its long history and the diverse peoples who have interacted with its waters. These names often carry historical, literary, or geographical significance.

The sea's nomenclature varies significantly by region:

Language/Region	Name	Transcription/Notes
Chinese	東海 (Traditional) 东海 (Simplified)	Dōng Hǎi ("East Sea") One of the "Four Seas" in Chinese literature.^[5]
Korean	동중국해 (Hangul) 東中國海 (Hanja)	Dong Jungguk Hae ("East China Sea")
Japanese	東シナ海 (Kanji, since 2004) 東支那海 (Kanji, 1913–2004)	Higashi Shina Kai ("East China Sea") The term "Shina" was historically used but later became controversial.
Indonesian	Laut Tiongkok Timur (Current) Laut Cina Timur (Former)	"East China Sea" Official usage shifted from "Cina" to "Tiongkok" in 2014, though the former name persists in some media.

Historical Context

Whaling Expeditions

In the 19th century, the East China Sea was a significant hunting ground for American whaleships. Between 1849 and 1892, these vessels actively cruised the waters in pursuit of right whales, contributing to the maritime history of the region.^[6] This period highlights the sea's historical role in global commerce and resource extraction.

Genesis of Modern Disputes

The modern history of the East China Sea is largely defined by emerging geopolitical tensions, particularly concerning maritime boundaries and resource rights. These disputes began to escalate with the discovery of significant natural resources and the increasing strategic importance of the region, laying the groundwork for ongoing international disagreements.

Geopolitical Disputes

EEZ Boundary Contentions

Significant disputes persist among China (PRC), Japan, Taiwan, and South Korea regarding the demarcation of their respective Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs) in the East China Sea.^[7] Both China and Japan assert 200 nautical mile EEZ rights, yet the sea's width is merely 360 nautical miles, leading to overlapping claims.^[9] These disagreements stem from differing interpretations of the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), which both nations have ratified.^[8]

Natural Gas Fields

A major point of contention revolves around undersea natural gas fields. In 1995, the PRC discovered the Chunxiao gas field within its claimed EEZ.^[14] Japan, however, contends that this field may extend beyond the proposed median line, potentially tapping into shared reserves, and thus seeks a share in the resources.^[15] Despite an agreement in June 2008 for joint development, its execution has remained elusive.^[16] The Xihu Sag area, including Chunxiao, is estimated to hold substantial natural gas reserves, with commercial operations commencing in 2006.^[17]

Island Ownership and Reefs

Disputes over island ownership, particularly the Senkaku Islands (known as Diaoyutai in Taiwan and Diaoyu Islands in China), have frequently ignited official and civilian protests between China and Japan.^[19] Furthermore, the submerged Socotra Rock (Suyan Rock or Ieodo), where South Korea has established an ocean research station, is a source of dispute between the PRC and South Korea, with China objecting to Korean activities as a breach of its EEZ rights.

Military Presence

China's Naval Power

The People's Republic of China (PRC) maintains a substantial naval presence in the East China Sea, possessing more naval vessels than the U.S. Navy within its littoral operational sphere.^[20] This expanded naval involvement, characterized by increased patrols and surveillance, underscores China's strategic imperative to safeguard maritime routes, assert territorial claims (such as the Senkaku/Diaoyutai Islands), and project regional strength. These activities significantly influence the naval strategies of neighboring countries and shape broader maritime cooperation initiatives, contributing to the intricate regional security dynamics.

Japan's Maritime Self-Defense Force

The Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force (MSDF) plays a crucial role in the East China Sea, particularly concerning the Senkaku (Diaoyutai) Islands conflict. Japan has enhanced its maritime capabilities through increased naval patrols and surveillance to protect its territorial rights and monitor regional activities. The MSDF's presence highlights Japan's commitment to maritime security, upholding international law, and engaging in joint naval exercises with allies in the Indo-Pacific region. These actions aim to promote stability, build confidence, and deter security threats, reflecting Japan's proactive stance on maritime defense in the Asia-Pacific.

Republic of China Navy

Taiwan's involvement in the East China Sea is shaped by its territorial claims and strategic concerns, particularly regarding the Senkaku (Diaoyutai) Islands. While Taiwan asserts ownership, its maritime operations in the area are less extensive compared to those of China and Japan. Taiwan maintains a Coast Guard presence for patrolling its waters and managing maritime incidents. Its activities are influenced by broader security considerations and cross-strait relations with mainland China. The tensions over the Senkaku (Diaoyutai) Islands impact Taiwan's security outlook and regional stability, necessitating close monitoring of maritime activities and ongoing diplomatic engagement with relevant parties.

Celestial Connections

The East China Sea in the Stars

Intriguingly, the East China Sea, or Donghai in Chinese, finds a representation in the celestial sphere. The star Eta Serpentis is associated with the asterism 'Left Wall' within the 'Heavenly Market enclosure' in traditional Chinese constellations, symbolizing this significant maritime region.^[22] This connection highlights the deep cultural and historical ties between the land, sea, and sky in East Asian traditions.

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East China Sea: Geopolitical Crossroads

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Defining the Sea ℹ️

🌐 A Marginal Pacific Basin

📏 Dimensions and Depth

🔗 Connections and Borders

Geographical Features 🗺️

🏞️ Surrounding Nations

🌊 Defining the Extent

🏝️ Key Islands and Reefs

Diverse Naming Conventions 🗣️

📜 Historical and Cultural Names

Historical Context ⏳

🐳 Whaling Expeditions

🚧 Genesis of Modern Disputes

Geopolitical Disputes ⚖️

🌐 EEZ Boundary Contentions

⛽ Natural Gas Fields

🏝️ Island Ownership and Reefs

Military Presence 🛡️

🇨🇳 China's Naval Power

🇯🇵 Japan's Maritime Self-Defense Force

🇹🇼 Republic of China Navy

Celestial Connections ✨

🌟 The East China Sea in the Stars

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📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Defining the Sea

A Marginal Pacific Basin

Dimensions and Depth

Connections and Borders

Geographical Features

Surrounding Nations

Defining the Extent

Key Islands and Reefs

Diverse Naming Conventions

Historical and Cultural Names

Historical Context

Whaling Expeditions

Genesis of Modern Disputes

Geopolitical Disputes

EEZ Boundary Contentions

Natural Gas Fields

Island Ownership and Reefs

Military Presence

China's Naval Power

Japan's Maritime Self-Defense Force

Republic of China Navy

Celestial Connections

The East China Sea in the Stars

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice