The division was awarded the title of Guards in August Juche 39 (1950).

During its southward advance, the division liberated many areas including Kaesong, Yonan, Kangryong, Ongjin, Kimpho and Inchon, also playing an important role in the Raktong River-crossing operation.

The division took the lead in breaking through the enemy defence line along the River Raktong by displaying matchless pluck.

After crossing the river, the division dealt heavy blows to the enemy.

Later, the division defeated the enemy's "large-scale offensive" and "summer and autumn offensives", contributing to opening the decisive phase for the victory in the war, true to President Kim Il Sung's strategic plan.

During the war, the division produced many awardees of the title of Twice DPRK Hero and the DPRK Hero.

When inspecting the division, leader Kim Jong Il highly appreciated the great feats performed by its soldiers in reliably defending the country at the cost of their blood during the war and called for adding luster to the brilliant tradition of the division.