Comparison of nonlinear 1$1/2$-layer and 2$1/2$-layer numerical models with strong offshore winds and the Tsushima Current in the East Sea

According to numerical experiments, the Sokcho Eddy is produced at $37 5~39.0^{\circ}N$ by strong offshore winds, whereas the Ulleung Eddy is produced at $35~37^{\circ}N$ by an inflow variation of the Tsushima Current. These locations compare well with visual observations. The nonlinear 1$1/2$-layer model showed that most of the East Korea Warm Current (EKWC) driven by the Tsushima Current form the Ulleung Eddy that is larger and stronger than the Sokcho Eddy. In contrast, the nonlinear 2$1/2$-layer model showed that most of the EKWC travels further northward due to a strong subsurface current, thereby enhancing the Sokcho Eddy making it larger and stronger than the Ulleung Eddy. The Sokcho Eddy is also produced relatively offshore due to an eastward subsurface current in the frontal region. Using the 1$1/2$-layer model, when the mass of the Tsushima Current decreases, the two eddies are weakened and produce a circular shape. In the 2$1/2$-layer model the EKWC pushes the Ulleung Eddy northward after 330 days, next the Sokcho and Ulleung eddies begin to interact with each other, and then after 360 days the Ulleung Eddy finally disappears absorbed by the relatively stronger Sokcho Eddy. This behavior compares favorably with other visual observations.