CHEORWON, South Korea, Jan. 13 (Korea Bizwire) — The South Korean Army’s 6th Infantry Division has conducted an intensive winter combat exercise designed to enhance operational readiness in extreme cold conditions.
The drills, which began on February 10 and conclude on February 14, took place in the Cheorwon and Pocheon regions, employing K1E1 tanks, K9 and K55A1 self-propelled howitzers, as well as KUH-1 and 500MD helicopters.
The exercise was organized in response to escalating concerns over North Korea’s growing military capabilities, particularly as Pyongyang reportedly gains combat experience through its deployment of mercenaries to assist Russia’s war in Ukraine.
The training aimed to bolster combat effectiveness under adverse conditions and ensure swift responses to potential provocations from the North.
The division mobilized all subordinate units for a series of tactical scenarios, including simultaneous deployment of rapid-response forces, defensive operations, and offensive maneuvers.
The first two days of training focused on counter-infiltration operations along the heavily fortified border, with an emphasis on simulating real-world combat scenarios using adversary forces to heighten realism.
Following the counter-infiltration drills, the exercise shifted to full-scale warfare simulations. Troops conducted operations such as securing strategic locations, setting up battlefield obstacles, establishing field water supply stations, managing mass casualty situations, and relocating command posts—ensuring operational continuity in extreme winter conditions.
The final day of training featured large-scale offensive operations, integrating reserve forces and firepower to neutralize enemy positions and achieve decisive battlefield victories.
“This was my first experience in extreme winter training, and although I had initial concerns, the realistic combat scenarios helped me quickly adapt and stay focused on my mission,” said Private Lee Jong-hyun of the division’s Chosan Brigade. “I am committed to being fully prepared for any situation.”
Major General Kim Jin-sung, commander of the 6th Infantry Division, praised the troops for their resilience. “Despite the severe cold, our forces demonstrated peak combat readiness. This exercise has reinforced our ability to fight and win under any circumstances,” he said.
Looking ahead, the 6th Infantry Division plans to incorporate lessons learned from the drills to further refine its defense posture against North Korea. The division is committed to continuous, realistic training to elevate combat proficiency across all ranks.
Image credit: Yonhap, South Korean Army’s 6th Infantry Division / photonews@koreabizwire.com
