GIS Analysis and Evaluation on the Geothermal Reserves of the Coastal Area of Jeju Island and Ulleung Island, Volcanic Islands in South Korea

Ulleung Island exhibits significantly higher geothermal potential compared to Jeju Island and inland South Korea, with average thermal conductivity of 1.69 W/mK (Ulleung) versus 1.76 W/mK (Jeju), and geothermal gradients of 86.55 °C/km (Ulleung) versus 24.65 °C/km (Jeju). This study, published in the Journal of Coastal Research, analyzed geothermal reserves using GIS to compare coastal volcanic islands—Jeju and Ulleung—in South Korea. The research revealed that Ulleung Island's higher heat flow (127.06 mW/m²) and heat production rate (3.75 µW/m³) stem from distinct geological origins, unlike Jeju Island's lower values (40.13 mW/m², 0.76 µW/m³). The findings highlight Ulleung as a promising site for geothermal energy development to support South Korea's climate goals, while Jeju's potential is constrained by its volcanic formation.

Kim, H., Baek, S., & Hwang, J. (2019). GIS Analysis and Evaluation on the Geothermal Reserves of the Coastal Area of Jeju Island and Ulleung Island, Volcanic Islands in South Korea. Journal of Coastal Research, 90(sp1), 377. https://doi.org/10.2112/si90-048.1