J.S.Lee’s scientific thought and the pioneering of China’s offshore oil industry (1954–1971): A study based on archival research and strategic practice

ZHAO Man

doi:10.12090/j.issn.1006-6616.2025180

Volume 32 Issue 1

Feb. 2026

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Article Navigation > Journal of Geomechanics > 2026 > 32(1): 272-284

ZHAO M，2026. J.S.Lee’s scientific thought and the pioneering of China’s offshore oil industry (1954–1971): A study based on archival research and strategic practice[J]. Journal of Geomechanics，32（1）：272−284 doi: 10.12090/j.issn.1006-6616.2025180

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J.S.Lee’s scientific thought and the pioneering of China’s offshore oil industry (1954–1971): A study based on archival research and strategic practice

doi: 10.12090/j.issn.1006-6616.2025180

ZHAO Man

Institute of Geomechanics, Chinese Academy of Geological Sciences, Beijing 100081, China

Funds: This research was financially supported by the CAST Senior Scientists' Academic Growth Data Collection Project (Grant No. CG20240722009), and the Basic Research Fund of Chinese Academy of Geological Sciences (Grant No. JKYKP202401).

More Information

Received: 2025-12-15
Revised: 2026-01-12
Accepted: 2026-01-13

Available Online: 2026-01-19

Published: 2026-02-27

Abstract

Abstract

Objective During the 1950s, the prevalent presumption that China was oil-poor constrained its exploration efforts and hindered its oil exploitation. Methods Based on historical materials such as letters, manuscripts, speeches, and works by J.S.Lee during his tenure as Minister of Geology from 1954 to 1971, this paper comprehensively outlines the complete practical course of his guidance for China's offshore oil exploration. Results Based on his analysis of the Neocathaysian structural system, J.S.Lee proposed a strategy of "balanced development between eastern and western regions, with simultaneous advances on land and at sea." He also used the principle of "Find the oil region first, then locate the oil field," thereby putting into practice a comprehensive system for petroleum survey and exploration. Conclusions Following the breakthrough at the Daqing Oil Field, J.S.Lee personally oversaw the formulation of a progressive "from land to sea" strategy. Starting with the Bohai Sea, he systematically planned the layout for oil and gas exploration across China's entire maritime territory and issued the strategic call to "march toward the ocean." [Significance] This paper provides an important historical reference for understanding the logical implications of national strategies such as achieving self-reliance and self-improvement in science and technology and ensuring energy and resource security.
- J.S.Lee,
- geomechanics,
- Neocathaysian structural system,
- offshore oil,
- from land to sea

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