Three-dimensional Laboratory Experiments for Tsunami Force Coefficient at Imwon Port

Tsunamis mainly triggered by impulsive undersea earthquakes are one of most devastating natural disasters. They can travel long distances in all directions from the source region and strike not only neighboring countries but also distant countries. For example, the Central East Sea Tsunami occurred near the Japanese Western Coast on May 26, 1983 stroke the Eastern Coast of Korea across the East Sea. The tsunami killed 3 people and caused property damage at Imwon Port. Thus, an efficient and proper countermeasure is essential to mitigate damage. In this study, a series of laboratory experiments are carried out to investigate the tsunami force acting on coastal structures. A so-called tsunami force coefficient is found at Imwon Port. The coefficient covers most of forces acting on structures due to tsunamis.