Statistical analysis of landslide susceptibility at Yongin, Korea

The aim of this study is to evaluate the susceptibility of landslides at Yongin, Korea, using a geographic information system (GIS). Landslide locations were identified in the Yongin area from interpretation of aerial photographs, field surveys, and maps of the topography, soil type, timber cover, and geology. These data were collected and constructed into a spatial database using GIS. The factors that influence landslide occurrence, such as slope, aspect, and curvature of topography, were calculated from the topographic database. Texture, material, drainage, and effective soil thickness were extracted from the soil database, and type, age, diameter, and density of timber were extracted from the forest database. Lithology was extracted from the geological database, and land use was classified from the Landsat TM satellite image. Landslide susceptibility was analyzed using the landslide occurrence factors by probability and logistic regression methods. The results of the analysis were verified using the landslide location data. The validation results showed satisfactory agreement between the susceptibility map and the existing data on landslide location. The GIS was used to analyze the vast amount of data efficiently, and statistical programs were used to maintain specificity and accuracy. The results can be used to reduce associated hazards, and to plan land use and construction.