1,2,- 1Department of Geography Education, Chonnam National University, Gwangju 61186, South Korea
- 2Department of Geological and Environmental Sciences, Chonnam National University, Gwangju 61186, South Korea
Soil erosion is a critical factor causing structural changes in the natural environment by inducing vegetation reduction and topographic alterations, making it a vital subject of analysis from a geomorphological perspective. Jirisan National Park, the first national park in South Korea, holds immense symbolic value and rich ecological resources that necessitate high conservation priority. However, its vulnerability to erosion has been increasing recently due to intensified tourist activities and natural disasters driven by rapid climate change.
This study quantitatively estimated soil erosion rates in Jirisan National Park by adopting fallout radionuclide analysis (Cs-137 and exPb-210), a method that has not yet been widely applied in South Korea. The analysis revealed that the overall average soil erosion rates were 1.51±0.21 t/ha/yr based on the Cs-137 method and 2.65±0.2 t/ha/yr based on the exPb-210 method.
Regarding the spatial distribution characteristics of each radionuclide, the erosion rates derived from Cs-137 showed a distinct pattern, being relatively higher in the eastern part of Jirisan compared to the western part. In contrast, no significant difference in erosion rates based on location was observed for exPb-210. These results suggest that the distribution of heavy rainfall and intensive precipitation, influenced by the recent migration paths of typhoons which have been more pronounced in the eastern region, has directly impacted the erosion rates.
By scientifically clarifying soil erosion rates-a key indicator of topographic change-through radionuclide analysis, this study provides essential baseline data for establishing precise environmental conservation and soil resource management strategies for Jirisan National Park. It holds significant academic and policy implications for future conservation efforts.
Keywords: Soil erosion rate; Fallout radionuclides; Spatiotemporal distribution; Jirisan National Park
How to cite: Shin, Y., Kim, Y., Ki, S., and Kim, J. K.: Estimation of Soil Erosion Rates and Spatiotemporal Distribution Characteristics in Jirisan National Park Using Fallout Radionuclides, EGU General Assembly 2026, Vienna, Austria, 3–8 May 2026, EGU26-9098, https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-egu26-9098, 2026.
