South Korea training 500,000 drone operators: Inside Seoul's plan
Photo: South Korea has unveiled a large-scale plan to reform its military by 2029 (Getty Images)
South Korea has announced a large-scale drone reform for its military, 500,000 trained troops and 110,000 drones by 2029. This is a response to the threat from Pyongyang, which is also actively developing unmanned systems, according to Reuters.
The South Korean Ministry of Defense has announced a dramatic expansion of its drone forces. By 2029, the army, navy, air force, and Marines will receive 110,000 drones.
At the same time, the country plans to train 500,000 drone operators. Tens of thousands of unmanned systems will be distributed among units on the front lines.
"Drones should no longer be equipment used by a limited number of units, but a universal combat tool," says South Korean Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back, adding that soldiers should use them as a "second personal weapon."
Domestic production only, no China
Seoul is relying on domestic components. Minister Ahn Gyu-back confirmed that the share of Chinese parts in the new systems is zero, solely for security reasons.
The Ministry will also revise procurement rules to accelerate the adoption of civilian technologies and develop its own drone industry.
Swarm drones and lasers—the army’s new weapons
In addition to mass-equipping its units, the army plans to:
- Purchase over 20,000 inexpensive disposable drones
- Introduce swarm systems based on artificial intelligence
- Use loitering munitions
- Expand its anti-drone capabilities—including laser and high-powered microwave weapons.
Each branch will be able to conduct reconnaissance and launch drone strikes independently, without relying on centralized command.
Why is this happening right now?
"Low-cost drones operated in large numbers are fundamentally changing the nature of warfare," emphasizes Ahn Gyu-back. According to him, North Korea is also improving its unmanned systems, which poses a threat to both military and civilian targets in the South.
The experience of conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East has shown both Koreas that drones are capable of changing the course of hostilities.
Scandal and command reorganization
The reform is taking place following a high-profile trial. Former South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol was sentenced to 30 years in prison, in part for ordering military drones to be sent to North Korea to justify the imposition of martial law in 2024.
In the wake of this scandal, current President Lee Jae Myung disbanded the drone command. On Friday, a replacement was announced, a new structure that will focus on policy and capability development, while operational control will remain with individual units.
There is another factor: South Korea is facing a decline in the number of conscripts due to a demographic crisis. That is why the military is increasingly relying on unmanned systems and automation.
Meanwhile, North Korea is also building up its military capabilities. The DPRK has commissioned a new 5,000-metric-ton destroyer, the Choe Hyon, capable of launching nuclear missiles. The country’s leader, Kim Jong Un, called this a step toward transforming the navy into a nuclear force.
North Korea has announced plans to build two large warships each year over the next five years, including a 10,000-metric-ton cruiser and submarine-launched weapons systems.
