TOP 10 Special Forces in South Korea
South Korea’s special forces play a critical role in national security, undertaking various missions to ensure the safety of its citizens. This post introduces the top 10 special forces in South Korea, highlighting their unique characteristics and missions. This ranking is not to determine superiority among the units but to provide an overview of their roles and contributions.
1. UDU (Republic of Korea Army Intelligence Command Special Forces) : Special Forces in South Korea
The UDU, established in 1955 under the Army Intelligence Command, is one of South Korea’s most secretive units. Originating from the UDT, it became a separate unit focused on clandestine operations in North Korea. Known for its high level of secrecy, the UDU operates with extreme security measures, often conducting missions deep behind enemy lines. Unlike other special forces veterans who appear in public, UDU members maintain a low profile. Its notoriety was further enhanced by the portrayal of a UDU operative in the movie The Man from Nowhere.
2. HID (Republic of Korea Army Intelligence Command Special Forces)
Founded in 1952, HID is another key intelligence and special operations unit under the Army Intelligence Command. Known for its “Northern Deployment Agents,” HID specializes in intelligence gathering and covert operations in North Korea, often infiltrating via demilitarized zones or maritime routes. HID shares its espionage role with UDU and has been a cornerstone of South Korea’s intelligence operations. It has also reportedly been prepared for operations during the December 3 martial law emergency, causing public concern.
3. Marine Corps Special Reconnaissance Team
Established in 2018, this unit evolved from the traditional Marine Corps reconnaissance team into a highly capable, officer-driven special reconnaissance unit. During wartime, it undertakes missions such as firepower guidance, direct attacks, sabotage, guerrilla warfare, and intelligence collection to support Marine Corps operations. In peacetime, it operates as an anti-terrorism task force and was elevated to this role in 2020.
4. SSU (Ship Salvage Unit)
The SSU specializes in maritime disaster response and salvage operations. Founded on September 1, 1950, its roots lie in the post-colonial era’s dockworkers, making it South Korea’s premier underwater operations unit. During wartime, it handles harbor clearing and combat rescue operations. In peacetime, it conducts underwater salvage, human rescue missions, and ship recovery. Notable missions include the salvage of a North Korean semi-submersible in 1999, the rescue and recovery of the Cheonan warship in 2010, and its efforts during the Sewol Ferry disaster in 2014.
5. CCT (Combat Control Team)
The Combat Control Team was established in 1978 under the influence of U.S. combat controllers from the Vietnam War. Known for their iconic red berets, they operate as a specialized air traffic control and anti-terrorism task force during wartime. Each member undergoes rigorous training lasting three years, including parachuting, mountaineering, anti-terrorism, and naval reconnaissance. Their elite status stems from their small, highly trained cadre of warrant officers and non-commissioned officers.
6. SART (Search and Rescue Team)
Formed in 1958, SART’s mission is to rescue downed pilots. It operates in challenging conditions, including North Korean territory, and has participated in numerous large-scale disaster recovery operations, such as the Sampoong Department Store collapse and the Seongsu Bridge collapse, saving countless lives.
7. ROKA Special Warfare Command (ROKA-SWC)
The Republic of Korea Army Special Warfare Command (ROKA-SWC) is the epitome of South Korea’s special forces. Known for its versatile infiltration tactics via land, sea, and air, its missions include guerrilla warfare, reconnaissance, sabotage, assassination, and hostage rescue. Its operational successes include the Uljin-Samcheok and Gangneung armed infiltration incidents. Under its command are the renowned 707th Special Mission Group and multiple brigades, such as the 1st, 3rd, 5th, 7th, 9th, 11th, and 13th Brigades.
8. Korean National Police Special Operations Unit (SOU)
The SOU is tasked primarily with counter-terrorism operations and ensures public safety during major national events and crises. Comprised of specially trained operatives, many of whom are veterans of other special forces, this unit operates under the jurisdiction of South Korea’s 18 provincial police agencies.
9. UDT/SEAL (Republic of Korea Navy Special Warfare Flotilla)
Established in 1955, the UDT/SEAL specializes in reconnaissance, intelligence gathering, demolition, and counter-terrorism operations. It gained international recognition during the 2011 Operation Dawn of Gulf of Aden, earning respect as one of South Korea’s most experienced and battle-tested units. Its fame was further cemented by media coverage of Captain Rhee Keun, a former UDT/SEAL operative.
10. 707th Special Mission Group
The 707th Special Mission Group, established in 1981, is the elite counter-terrorism and special operations unit under ROKA-SWC. Originally formed as a security detail, its mission expanded during preparations for the 1986 Asian Games and the 1988 Seoul Olympics. Known for its top-tier training and secrecy, the 707th has participated in critical operations, including decapitation missions and counter-terrorism exercises with global special forces.
South Korea’s special forces stand as a testament to the nation’s unwavering commitment to national security and global peacekeeping. These units represent the pinnacle of dedication, skill, and courage, ensuring the safety and pride of South Korea.