Abstract: For optimization of the marine Mesozoic and Paleozoic hydrocarbon targets in the South Yellow Sea, we made a comparative study of the hydrocarbon exploration situation, regional tectonics and source rock conditions of the Sichuan and the Subei-South Yellow Sea superimposed basins through field investigation. After comparison of the differences in tectonic evolution between the upper and lower Yangtze, it is found that the marine Paleozoic is more complete on the Laoshan uplift of the South Yellow Sea, especially the lower Paleozoic which is formed in a more stable tectonic environment. The lower marine Paleozoic has large thickness, good hydrocarbon source rock conditions and large structural traps. The Laoshan uplift is a favorable exploration target in the South Yellow Sea Basin.