SEOUL – North Korea has pledged to arrest and investigate those responsible for the failed launch of its second naval destroyer, after leader Kim Jong Un reportedly erupted in anger over what he described as “unforgivable criminal negligence.”
According to the state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), the mishap occurred Wednesday during a launch ceremony at the northeastern port of Chongjin. The 5,000-ton-class warship was seriously compromised when a transport cradle detached prematurely, causing the vessel to tip onto its side. Satellite imagery later confirmed the ship resting on its hull, draped in blue tarps, and partially submerged.
Despite the dramatic failure, KCNA insisted the damage was not severe and could be repaired within 10 days. It reported scratches on the starboard hull and seawater intrusion in the stern but denied earlier claims that the bottom had been punctured.
The rare public admission of a military setback—particularly involving a high-profile weapons platform—has drawn attention from international observers. Analysts say North Korea’s unusually candid response may be intended to underscore Kim’s determination to expand naval capabilities and enforce internal discipline.
The Central Military Commission has already summoned Hong Kil Ho, manager of the Chongjin shipyard, to lead an investigation into the incident. “Regardless of the ship’s condition, the accident is a grave criminal act, and those responsible cannot escape accountability,” the commission said via KCNA.
Kim, who personally attended the ill-fated launch, rebuked military officials, scientists, and shipyard workers. He ordered that repairs be completed ahead of a high-level Workers’ Party meeting scheduled for late June.
The vessel involved is believed to be a sister ship of the first North Korean destroyer unveiled last month, which state media claimed was capable of carrying nuclear weapons. Experts describe the class as North Korea’s most advanced warship to date, with speculation that Russian technical support may have played a role in its development.
Satellite analysis by the monitoring group 38 North had recently noted preparations for a rare side-launch technique at Chongjin, in contrast to the floating dry dock method used at the western Nampo shipyard.
While Pyongyang’s state media continues to frame the incident as a recoverable setback, the episode has raised fresh questions about the regime’s naval engineering capabilities and internal controls.
