The South Korean Army is expanding the use of virtual reality and digital monitoring technologies in reservist training to increase realism and strengthen operational readiness, The Korea Herald has reported.
New technology-based training modules have been introduced at the Seocho Reserve Training Center in southern Seoul, operated by the 52nd Infantry Division.
The initiative is part of a broader modernization effort to integrate digital tools into reserve training.
Currently, 29 technology-integrated training centers operate nationwide, with five more expected to open this year.
Virtual-Reality Training
A central element of the training is a virtual-reality shooting simulator that recreates urban combat scenarios using three large surrounding screens to project an immersive digital battlefield around the trainee.
The scenarios reproduce real locations in Seoul, allowing reservists to practice identifying hostile targets while avoiding civilians.
During the exercise, participants wear helmets with sensors and electronic vests and use training rifles built to mimic the recoil of real firearms.
If the system detects that a trainee has been struck during the simulated engagement, the electronic vest emits vibrations at the corresponding body part.
This feedback indicates where the simulated shot would have hit.
Urban combat training also uses the Multiple Integrated Laser Engagement System, which simulates firefights using laser transmitters and body sensors rather than live ammunition.
The training includes medical instruction with cardiopulmonary resuscitation exercises conducted using sensor-equipped mannequins that measure the depth, rhythm, and accuracy of chest compressions.
Training performance is monitored through a central computer system that collects data from equipment in real-time, allowing instructors to track each participant’s actions and provide immediate feedback.
