"The general oceanographic literature concerning the Japan/East Sea is usually characterized by an absence of references to early historical research, particularly by Russian scientists. Ignoring earlier published papers may result in a shallower level of research and recurring papers on work that has already been done. The reason for incomplete knowledge of foreign papers and their collection in libraries is due to the absence of information about them. Thematic bibliographies help researchers to find recent and historical works, published abroad or from within the country of origin. This bibliography contains 1224 references on various aspects of oceanography of the Japan/East Sea published between 1832 and 1997. The authors are grateful to Dr. Skip McKinnell of the PICES Secretariat for his frequent assistance and suggestions for improving the bibliography."--Foreword.