To respond to tsunamis, KMA has installed a wave gauge at the east coast of the Korean Peninsula and exchanges observation data and tsunami information with Japan. In addition, it makes effort to develop international cooperation with Southeast Asian countries including China and Japan for earthquake·tsunami monitoring. Moreover, KMA has employed different types of observation instruments, such as a satellite- mounted geophysical sensor observing volcanic activities and a sensor measuring sounds delivered through the atmosphere.

  The National Earthquake and Volcano Center (NEVC) of KMA has responsibility for publishing formal procedures to deal with local and distant tsunamis and issuing a tsunami advisory or warning, based on information of the preliminary epicenter and magnitude of the earthquake. The center also disseminates tsunami information, including earthquake information, the estimated arrival time, and height of the tsunami along the local coast.

  To identify tsunamigenic events in the immediate source area, the NEVC operates a seismic network across the nation. It also runs a sea-level monitoring system at Ulleungdo Island in the East Sea. Since the island is located about 130km from the eastern coast, the early detection of tsunami can provide useful information in issuing tsunami warnings. The center also receives seismic data from other domestic organizations, and distributes tsunami advisories or warnings to the key national emergency management agencies, the news media and local authorities, via SMS, MMS, FAX, e-mail and computer messaging. To this end, it runs a 24/7 duty system.

  To confirm a tsunami, the NEVC analyzes sea level data from 46 tidal stations across the country, which are operated by the Korea Hydrographic and Oceanographic Administration (KHOA). The data are being updated every minute on its website

(http://www.khoa.go.kr/koofs/eng/observation/obs_real_map.asp).

  Local meteorological agencies will monitor sea level variations to make sure the arrival or retreating of a tsunami and report it to the NEVC.