Baseflow gives a significant contribution to stream function in the regions where climatic characteristics are seasonally
distinct. In this regard, variable baseflow can make it difficult to maintain a stable water supply, as well as causing
disruption to the stream ecosystem. Changes in land use can affect both the direct flow and baseflow of a stream, and
consequently, most other components of the hydrologic cycle. Baseflow estimation depends on the observed streamflow in
gauge watersheds, but accurate predictions of streamflow through modeling can be useful in determining baseflow data for
ungauged watersheds. Accordingly, the objectives of this study are to 1) improve predictions of SWAT by applying the
alpha factor estimated using RECESS for calibration; 2) estimate baseflow in an ungauged watershed using the WHAT
system; and 3) evaluate the effects of changes in land use on baseflow characteristics. These objectives were implemented
in the Gapcheon watershed, as an ungauged watershed in South Korea. The results show that the alpha factor estimated
using RECESS in SWAT calibration improves the prediction for streamflow, and, in particular, recessions in the baseflow.
Also, the changes in land use in the Gapcheon watershed leads to no significant difference in annual baseflow between
comparable periods, regardless of precipitation, but does lead to differences in the seasonal characteristics observed for the
temporal distribution of baseflow. Therefore, the Guem River, into which the stream from the Gapcheon watershed flows,
requires strategic seasonal variability predictions of baseflow due to changes in land use within the region.