The figures are taken from the London-based International Institute of Strategic Studies' annual global "Military Balance" report, 2011.
North Korea's annual defence spending as of 2008 was estimated at $8.2 billion, or 22-24 percent of GDP, while South Korea's as of 2012 was $30.8 billion, or 2.7 percent of GDP.
South Korea is protected by the US "nuclear" umbrella, while North Korea, which conducted its third nuclear test in February, claims a potent nuclear weapons capability.
The range of North Korean missiles, and its ability to manufacture and deliver working nuclear warheads, are a matter of dispute.
North Korea South Korea (+ US forces)
GROUND FORCES
Active troops 1.2 million 655,000 (+ 28,000)
Reserves/Paramilitaries 5-7.7 million 3.0 million
Tanks 4,100 2,400 (+ 50)
Armoured personnel carriers 2,500 2,600 (+ 110)
Field artillery pieces 8,500 5,200 (+ 16)
Multiple rocket launchers 5,100 200 (+ 40)
Mortars 7,500 6,000
Air Defence Guns 11,000 300
AIR FORCES
Combat aircraft 820 (620 serviceable) 460 (+ 90)
Helicopters 300 680 (+ 120)
NAVAL FORCES
Principle combat vessels 3 19
Patrol and coastal vessels 383 111
Submarines 70 23
Hovercraft 135 5
Landing ships and craft 130 41
Short link: