SYSTEMS DATABASE / K2 ASSAULT RIFLE
SMALL ARMS SYSTEM ACTIVE BATTLE TESTED 88%

K2 Assault Rifle

K2 / K2C1

MANUFACTURER S&T Motiv
IN SERVICE 1984

OVERVIEW

The K2 is the standard-issue 5.56×45mm NATO assault rifle of the Republic of Korea Armed Forces, in service since 1984. Designed by Agency for Defense Development (ADD) and manufactured by S&T Motiv, it features a folding stock, gas-operated rotating bolt, and is optimized for the Korean operating environment. The modernized K2C1 variant adds Picatinny rails for optics and accessories. Over 2 million produced.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

caliber
5.56×45mm NATO
action
Gas-operated, rotating bolt
rate of fire rpm
750
muzzle velocity ms
920
effective range m
460
max range m
2500
weight kg
3.26
length mm
980 (730 folded)
barrel length mm
465
magazine capacity
20 or 30 rounds
variants
K2 (standard), K2C1 (rail system), K2C (compact)

BATTLE TESTED REVIEWS

88
Korean DMZ / Border Operations Proven Standard-Issue Performer
2010 | ROK Army After Action Reports

The K2 has been the backbone of ROK infantry for four decades, serving in harsh Korean peninsular conditions from sub-zero winters to humid summers. Extensively used in DMZ patrols, counter-infiltration operations, and joint exercises with US forces. Demonstrated excellent reliability in the 2010 Yeonpyeong Island shelling response and subsequent heightened readiness operations.

Over 2 million units produced — one of the most widely fielded Asian assault rifles
Proven in extreme Korean winter conditions (-30°C)
Used in live-fire response during 2010 Yeonpyeong Island crisis
High NATO interoperability with 5.56mm standard ammunition
85
Iraq — Zaytun Division Combat Proven in Desert Conditions
2004 | ROK MND Deployment Reports

The K2 was deployed with the ROK Zaytun Division in Erbil, Iraq (2004-2008). Korean forces used the K2 for base security, convoy protection, and stability operations. The rifle performed reliably in desert heat and sand conditions, though soldiers noted increased cleaning frequency was needed compared to Korean service.

Deployed with 3,600 Korean troops in Iraq
Maintained reliability in desert sand and heat
Effective in urban patrol and checkpoint operations
Zero critical weapon failures reported during deployment