A crucial deterrent to open hostilities, North Korea has made enormous investments in a strong special force’s unit of about 200,000 highly trained soldiers, geared for asymmetrical warfare, focusing on enemy infrastructure, and holding a stockpile of deadly and chemical weapons.
North Korea has a large army of 1.3 million soldiers but relies on outdated Soviet equipment, making it less effective compared to its rivals like the United States and South Korea. To compensate for this disadvantage, North Korea has invested heavily in special forces, totaling around 200,000 highly trained soldiers. The special forces have five main missions: conducting reconnaissance, engaging in combat operations alongside conventional forces, establishing a second front in South Korea, countering enemy special forces, and maintaining internal security. In the event of a conflict, North Korean special forces would likely target areas behind enemy lines, including infrastructure and military targets. They are also equipped to conduct psychological warfare and have a stockpile of biological and chemical weapons, raising concerns about their potential use. The special forces operate covertly in small teams, dressed in civilian or enemy uniforms, and carry limited equipment. Their existence serves as a deterrent for all-out war, as the risks and costs would be significant for all parties involved.
Source: https://www.19fortyfive.com/2023/05/what-makes-north-koreas-special-forces-so-dangerous/