It was charged with the protection of the Kangde Emperor, the imperial household, and senior members of the Manchukuo civil government.

Although largely a ceremonial force, the company received the latest firearms and also carried Japanese-style swords (Japanese: 軍刀, romanized: Guntō) as dress weaponry.

Their uniforms were grey or black with silver or gold insignia, with a five-color, five pointed star on their helmets and kepis.

It was effective in combat, having participated in the Ki Feng-lung District Subjugation in November 1932 and anti-bandit Honghuzi operations.

The Manchukuo Imperial Guards fought their last battles during the Soviet invasion of Manchuria and ceased to exist at the conclusion of the Soviet–Japanese War.