Estimation of Ocean Wave Parameters from KOMPSAT-5 Imagery Around the Korean Peninsula: Primary Results for Deep and Coastal Ocean

This study proposes a practical method to estimate significant wave height (SWH) and mean wave period (MWP) using KOMPSAT -5 X-band Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) images, focusing on both deep and coastal waters around the Korean Peninsula. The approach begins by applying two-dimensional Fast Fourier Transform (2D-FFT) to SAR backscatter imagery to generate a wave spectrum. From this spectrum, the dominant wavelength is identified, and the wave period is calculated using the dispersion relation for deep or shallow water, depending on local bathymetry. The wave height is then estimated by calculating the total spectral energy and applying an empirical curve-fitting relationship derived from buoy measurements. A total of 6 SAR scenes acquired between 2022 and 2024 were analyzed and matched with in-situ data from Korea Meteorological Administration (KMA) and Korea Hydrographic and Oceanographic Agency (KHOA) buoys. The estimated wave heights showed a root mean square error (RMSE) of approximately 0.41 m compared to buoy observations. These results demonstrate that KOMPSAT -5 SAR imagery is effective for ocean wave monitoring, particularly in nearshore areas where wave dynamics are complex and traditional global numerical models often fail to capture local condition. The proposed method provides a solid foundation for future improvements and localized algorithm development using domestic satellite data.