Summary of Northeast Asia geodynamics and tectonics*

Abstract. The compilation, synthesis, description, and interpretation of regional geology and tectonics of major regions, such as Northeast Asia (Eastern Russia, Mongolia, Northern China, South Korea, and Japan) and the Circum-North Pacific (the Russian Far East, Alaska, and Canadian Cordillera), requires a complex methodology that includes: (1) definitions of key terms; (2) compilation of a regional geodynamics map that can be constructed according to modern tectonic concepts and definitions; and (3) formulation of a comprehensive tectonic model. This article presents a summary of the regional dynamics and tectonics of Northeast Asia as developed for a new summary geodynamics map of the region. This article also describes how a high-quality summary geodynamics map and companion tectonic analysis substantially aids in the understanding of the origin of major rock units, major structures, and contained mineral and fuel resources, and provides important guidelines for new research.

* Prepared in memory of Leonid M. Parfenov, the leader of the geodynamics map team for the International collaborative project on NE Asia tectonics and metallogenesis.