SYSTEMS DATABASE / K3 LIGHT MACHINE GUN
SMALL ARMS SYSTEM ACTIVE BATTLE TESTED 87%

K3 Light Machine Gun

K3

MANUFACTURER S&T Motiv
IN SERVICE 1990

OVERVIEW

The K3 is the standard squad automatic weapon of the ROK Army, chambered in 5.56×45mm NATO. Based on the FN Minimi design, it provides sustained automatic fire at the squad level, fed from M27 disintegrating link belts or standard STANAG magazines. The K3 offers NATO interoperability and has been a reliable platform for decades.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

caliber
5.56×45mm NATO
action
Gas-operated, open bolt
rate of fire rpm
700-1,050
muzzle velocity ms
915
effective range m
600
weight kg
6.85
barrel length mm
533
feed
M27 belt or STANAG magazine
variants
K3 (standard), K3 Para (paratrooper)

BATTLE TESTED REVIEWS

86
Iraq — Zaytun Division Effective Squad Fire Support
2004 | ROK Army Infantry School

The K3 LMG served as the primary squad automatic weapon for ROK infantry deployed in Iraq. It provided suppressive fire capability during convoy security and base defense operations in Erbil province. Soldiers praised its reliability and the ability to use both belted ammunition and standard STANAG magazines, simplifying battlefield logistics.

Provided sustained fire support during convoy operations in Iraq
Dual-feed (belt and magazine) capability praised by troops
Reliable performance in sandy desert conditions
Effective in base perimeter defense roles
87
Korean DMZ Operations Dependable Defensive Weapon
2015 | ROK 2nd Infantry Division

The K3 is a key component of ROK forward defensive positions along the DMZ. During the 2015 DMZ landmine incident crisis, K3-equipped units were placed on high alert and manned fighting positions. The weapon system is integral to the layered defense doctrine of Korean infantry battalions.

Key component of DMZ defensive positions
Sustained fire capability critical for area denial
NATO interoperable with 5.56mm ammunition supply chain
Quick-change barrel allows sustained high rates of fire