Abstract: Keyword：Aiming at the problem that traditional peripheral blasting easily induces random cracks and cause surrounding rock failure, this study investigates the damage evolution mechanisms and dynamic response characteristics of presplitting hole directional blasting by integrating elastic mechanics theory with ANSYS/LS-DYNA numerical simulations. Initially, based on elastic mechanics theory, the mechanical mechanism by which presplitting holes guide crack propagation through reflected stress waves generating tensile stress concentration under explosive loading is elucidated. Subsequently, a numerical model of planar double-hole decoupled charge was established to systematically explore the influence of borehole spacing and in-situ stress field on the damage evolution. Finally, the dynamic variation patterns of peak pressure and peak particle vibration velocity near presplitting holes were analyzed. The results demonstrate that: (1) empty hole generates tensile stress concentration through reflected stress wave, significantly improving directional crack penetration while suppressing undesired crack bifurcation. (2) As the borehole spacing increases, the stress concentration effect of empty holes weakens, the peak pressure and particle peak velocity near the hole walls decrease, and the through-going cracks between holes also decrease. (3)Under the action of in-situ stress, emptyhole maintains its directional control capability within the stress field. With increasing in-situ stress, the horizontal peak pressure near empty holes increases, resulting in inhibited crack propagation between boreholes and weakened crack-guiding effect of empty holes. It is necessary to adjust the hole spacing to promote the formation of penetrating cracks.