Due to various factors, such as the interpolation step or automatic correlators specifics, global digital elevation models (DEM) often have an effect of understating the heights, which leads to inaccurate display of structural landforms e.g. ridges. The algorithm of adaptive correction of structural landforms elevation on DEM is proposed in this article. The algorithm consists of two stages. In the first stage, an automatic classification of structural forms is performed based on height difference between neighboring DEM elements. In the second stage, the DEM elements are corrected based on the assigned classes. Adaptivity of the algorithm allows to use it for any kind of terrain and elevation ranges. The algorithm was tested on the global DEM ALOS World 3D (ALOS W3D30); the accuracy was assessed by geodetic reference network and ICESat mission data. The developed algorithm shows an improvement of DEM accuracy, especially in high-altitude areas, and it also helps to reveal areas requiring additional verification.