Leap into the new era of conflict with this range of North Korean KPA Infantry. These models are the ideal starting point for building a Korean force in Bolt Action.
‘If you have more men than they have bullets, they will eventually run out of ammunition.’
The forces of the KPA were vast, incorporating between 150,000 – 200,000 personnel, divided into 10 Infantry divisions, 1 Tank division, and 1 Air Force division. Although North Korean conscription was in effect before the outbreak of war, many young men were encouraged or pressed into service by their own families for the promise of financial reward.
At the outbreak of the Korea war in 1950, the KPA were better prepared in every way for the coming conflict. Not only were they better trained and more favourably equipped, but earlier guerilla warfare in South Korea had also left ROKA forces little time to re-establish a strong military presence. As such, the initial attacks on June 25, 1950, were highly effective.
The KPA foot soldier has long been celebrated for his ability to endure the worst the enemy, the harsh Korean climate, and the hardships his own superiors can throw at him. Modelled on the mechanized Soviet Army, sporting armaments supplied by Stalin and bolstered by veterans released from China, the KPA forces were considerably larger and more dangerous than the UN anticipated.
Forces of the Korean People’s Army celebrate victory on the battlefield.
KPA Rifle Squad
The standard Rifle Squad in the North Korean Army, the KPA, is a well-trained and well-disciplined team prepared for the many hardships anticipated in the struggle to come. To represent the vastness of the KPA in Bolt Action, a KPA army is allowed to include a free ten-man rifle squad of inexperienced infantry!
Contains 10 metal models, supplied unassembled and unpainted.
KPA LMG Squad
The basic KPA infantry squad consisted of ten men led by a sergeant and a junior sergeant (equivalent to a Corporal). Each squad included a light machine gun and required a second man to act as a loader. Typically the LMG would be the DP (Degtyaryov Pekhotny) machine gun, nicknamed the ‘record player’ for its distinctive round pan magazine.
Contains 10 metal models, supplied unassembled and unpainted.
KPA SMG Squad
Dedicated submachine gun armed companies were formed in the KPA at a regimental level. The primary purpose of the submachine gun company was to serve as the recon company for the infantry regiment. Each soldier is armed with the PPSh 41.
Contains 10 metal models, supplied unassembled and unpainted.
Getting started with Bolt Action: Korea
Your starting point for re-enacting the ferocious battles of the Korean war is the Bolt Action: Korea book. It is absolutely crammed with history, army lists and scenarios.
Inside the book, you’ll find a comprehensive history of the conflict with details of every major battle fought between the two sides. It also includes details of the various forces and their organisation, commanders, and equipment. Scenarios are provided for many of the battles, along with comprehensive force selectors to help you assemble your force.
Jon Russell