It is crucial to analyze the limit aseismic capacity and the failure mode for high core rockfill dam. The process of failure for high core rockfill dam is comprehensively studied on the basis of analyzing dynamic response
dynamic strength and seismic permanent deformation. The dynamic strength appears to be severely deficient in the impervious body and the upstream filter layer as the dam falls into the limit state. It is considered that the deficiency of dynamic strength will induce seismic fracture and liquefaction in the upstream filter layer
which finally will lead to failure of upstream and downstream slopes.