The K5 was first produced in 1989. It is recoil operated and uses a conventional Browning-type locking system. It is mostly carried by Commissioned Officers in the Republic of Korea Armed Forces. The DP51 is a popular surplus pistol in the west, with an average K5 going for roughly $300. The K5 is getting harder to find, and parts are scarce, but the guns still remain affordable. The Daewoo DP51 has been noted to be similar to numerous other firearms, such as the Smith & Wesson 5906, Beretta 92FS, SIG-Sauer P226, CZ-75, Walther P38, Browning Hi-Power and the Colt M1911A1.