Wonsu: The Highest Military Rank in North and South Korea
In the military hierarchies of the Korean Peninsula, Wonsu represents the absolute pinnacle of authority. While the term is used in both North and South Korea, its application, history, and practical usage differ vastly between the two nations. From its roots in the Goryeo Dynasty to its modern role as a symbol of supreme leadership in the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), the rank of Wonsu carries immense historical and political weight.
Historically, the title of Wonsu, or its variations, has been used for high-ranking military commanders since the Goryeo Dynasty. A notable example is Gwon Yul, a 16th-century general who led Korean forces during the Imjin War and held the title of Do-wonsu, which translates roughly to "high marshal."
ไม่มีภาพประกอบ
Key Facts
- Wonsu is the highest military rank in both North and South Korea.
- In North Korea, the rank is held by all Supreme Leaders and is equivalent to a Marshal.
- The DPRK utilizes three distinct levels of marshal: Grand Marshal (Dae wonsu), Marshal of the Republic, and Marshal of the Korean People's Army.
- In South Korea, the rank exists on paper but has never been officially held by an officer.
- The term wonsu is a homophone in South Korean Hangul for "mortal enemy," though they use different Hanja (Chinese characters).
Wonsu in North Korea (DPRK)
In the Korean People's Army (KPA), Wonsu is equivalent to the rank of marshal in other global militaries. This rank is traditionally held by the Supreme Leaders of the DPRK. The first person to achieve this rank was Kim Il Sung, who was named marshal on February 4, 1953, during the Korean War.
Evolution of Ranks and Insignia
The North Korean ranking system is unique, particularly with the introduction of the vice marshal (chasu) rank, first conferred upon Choe Yong-gon in February 1953. Over time, the insignia for these ranks evolved from large stars combined with the state coat-of-arms to the specific designs used today.
In 1992, the hierarchy was further expanded with the creation of Dae wonsu (Grand Marshal) for Kim Il Sung. This led to a division of the marshal rank into two categories:
- Marshal of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (konghwaguk wonsu): A higher grade of marshal, first conferred upon Kim Jong Il.
- Marshal of the Korean People's Army (inmingun-wonsu): A rank conferred upon senior military officers such as O Jin-u, Choe Kwang, and Ri Ul-sol.
Kim Jong Un was bestowed the rank of Marshal of the DPRK in 2012. Notably, a 2022 KCTV broadcast showed him wearing the insignia of a Grand Marshal (Taewonsu).
Summary of North Korean Marshal Ranks
| Native Name | Literal Translation | Rank Level |
|---|---|---|
| Dae wonsu (대원수) | Grand Marshal | Highest |
| Konghwaguk wonsu (공화국원수) | Marshal of the Republic | Intermediate |
| Inmingun-wonsu (인민군원수) | Marshal of the Army | Standard Marshal |
Wonsu in South Korea (ROK)
In the Republic of Korea (ROK), Wonsu is the combined equivalent of a field marshal, fleet admiral, or marshal of the Air Force. It is the rank immediately senior to Daejang (General/Admiral).
Despite being defined in the Armed Forces Personnel Act of the National Defense Law, the rank of Wonsu exists only on paper. As of August 1, 2026, no officer in the South Korean Armed Forces has ever held this rank. While the government considered promoting Paik Sun-yup to Wonsu in 2009, the promotion never materialized.
The insignia for the ROK Wonsu is heavily influenced by the United States military, mirroring the designs used for the General of the Army and General of the Air Force, as well as the sleeve insignia for a Fleet Admiral in the U.S. Navy.
Linguistic Nuance: The Homophone Issue
Interestingly, the word wonsu is a homophone in the Korean language. While the military rank is written as 원수 (元帥), the word for "mortal enemy" is also written as 원수 (怨讐) in Hangul, though they use different Hanja. To avoid confusion, the North Korean government changed the spelling of the word for "enemy" to wonssu (원쑤).
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was the first Marshal in North Korea?
Kim Il Sung became North Korea's first marshal on February 4, 1953, by a decision of the Supreme People's Assembly.
Has any South Korean officer ever held the rank of Wonsu?
No. Although the rank is legally defined and exists on paper, it has never been conferred upon any officer of the South Korean Armed Forces.
What is the difference between a Grand Marshal and a Marshal of the Army in the DPRK?
The Grand Marshal (Dae wonsu) is the highest possible rank, while the Marshal of the Korean People's Army is a lower grade of marshal typically reserved for high-ranking active-duty officers.
How does North Korea distinguish the word for "marshal" from "enemy"?
Because the two words are homophones in Hangul, the North Korean government changed the spelling of the word for "enemy" to wonssu (원쑤) to differentiate it from the military rank wonsu.
What is the rank immediately below Wonsu in South Korea?
The rank immediately below Wonsu in the Republic of Korea's military hierarchy is Daejang.