South Korea’s Elite Force UDT SEAL and Entry Fitness Test

The Republic of Korea Naval Special Warfare Flotilla, also known as UDT/SEAL, is the elite special operations unit of the South Korean Navy. It operates as a direct subordinate unit of the Naval Operations Command and is led by a rear admiral. The unit is widely recognized by its acronym UDT (Underwater Demolition Team), or UDT/SEAL (SEa, Air, and Land), reflecting its multi-domain capabilities.

UDT/SEAL operators undergoing knife training. You may have seen this scene in a YouTube Shorts video. That’s right—this unit is none other than South Korea’s UDT/SEAL.
(Photo source: Republic of Korea Ministry of National Defense)

History and Development

The roots of UDT/SEAL date back to the Korean War, when it was formed based on the achievements of the Yeongdo Unit’s maritime team, which received training from the U.S. Navy UDT and the CIA. Over the years, it adopted the U.S. Navy’s UDT model and evolved into the current UDT/SEAL.

Traditionally, the unit specialized in coastal reconnaissance, intelligence gathering, inland raids, demolitions, and hostage rescue operations. However, as times have changed, their missions have expanded to include land, sea, and air operations, counterterrorism, direct action, and VIP protection. Notably, in 2011, UDT/SEAL participated in a high-profile hostage rescue operation in Somalia, further solidifying their reputation on the global stage.

Republic of Korea UDT/SEAL operators conducting CQB training (Photo source)

Training and Selection Process

A cornerstone of UDT/SEAL's reputation is its rigorous training and selection process. The unit follows a structure similar to that of the U.S. Navy SEALs and continuously improves through international military education and joint exercises with other elite special forces units.

Physical Fitness Test Requirements

Becoming a UDT/SEAL operator requires exceptional physical endurance. As of 2025, the physical test includes the following standards:

Test	Criteria	Points
3km Run	Under 12 minutes 10 seconds	100 points
	12:10 ~ 12:59	90 points
	13:00 ~ 13:29	80 points
	Over 13:30	Fail
Push-ups	70+ reps	100 points
	60–69 reps	90 points
	50–59 reps	80 points
	30–49 reps	70 points
	Under 30 reps	Fail
Pull-ups	18+ reps	100 points
	15–17 reps	90 points
	12–14 reps	80 points
	10–11 reps	70 points
	Under 10 reps	Fail
Sit-ups	85+ reps	100 points
	75–84 reps	90 points
	65–74 reps	80 points
	55–64 reps	70 points
	45–54 reps	60 points
	Under 45 reps	Fail
Casualty Carry	Carrying a 60kg dummy for 20 meters in 30 seconds or less	100 points
	20–30 seconds	90 points
	30–40 seconds	80 points
	40–50 seconds	70 points
	Over 50 seconds	Fail
Comprehensive Swimming Test	200m total (20m underwater, 90m breaststroke, 90m freestyle) under 4 minutes 30 seconds	100 points
	4:30–5:00	90 points
	5:00–5:30	80 points
	5:30–6:00	70 points
	Over 6:00	Fail
Treading Water	Must remain afloat with wrists above the surface for at least 1 minute	100 points
	50–59 seconds	90 points
	40–49 seconds	80 points
	30–39 seconds	70 points
	Under 30 seconds	Fail

In all of these tests, candidates must follow a set tempo indicated by a sound signal. The push-ups, pull-ups, sit-ups, and other exercises are conducted according to this cadence. For example, each repetition must be synchronized with the sound signals, ensuring a consistent and controlled pace during the test. This is not just about physical strength but also about mental discipline, endurance, and the ability to perform under pressure.

Candidates must score at least 70 points in total across all events to pass the test. These intense standards are not just about physical fitness—they are designed to assess an individual’s ability to perform under extreme conditions, showcasing their mental toughness and resilience.

For a quick understanding of the test, a physical fitness evaluation video provided by the Republic of Korea Navy is attached.

Through relentless training and elite operational capabilities, the Republic of Korea Naval Special Warfare Flotilla (UDT/SEAL) continues to stand among the world’s most formidable special forces units.

Candidates who score below 70 points in total will fail the test. These standards are not only a test of physical strength and endurance but also assess mental resilience and the ability to perform under extreme conditions.

A photo of the Republic of Korea UDT/SEAL during maritime infiltration training (Photo source)

Conclusion

Through relentless training and exceptional operational capabilities, the Republic of Korea Naval Special Warfare Flotilla (UDT/SEAL) stands as one of the world’s most elite special forces units. With a proud history and unmatched skills, it continues to play a vital role in South Korea’s national security while maintaining a position among the most respected special forces globally.