North Korea warship launch ends in accident

Seoul

North Korea confirmed a “serious accident” during a warship launch ceremony on Wednesday in the eastern port city of Chongjin. Leader Kim Jong-un, who was present, condemned the failure as a “criminal act” and blamed “inexperience and carelessness,” according to state media KCNA.

The incident occurred during the launch of a 5,000-tonne destroyer. The launch mechanism failed, causing the warship’s stern to dislodge early while the bow remained stuck. Parts of the ship’s bottom were crushed, damaging its balance. The destroyer could not leave the shipway.

Kim harshly criticized those responsible and ordered the warship be fully restored before June’s key Workers’ Party meeting. He stressed that the issue is not just technical, but political, impacting the state’s authority. He also initiated an investigation to find those accountable.

Photos of the accident were not released, but South Korea believes North Korea failed while attempting a side launch, a complex naval technique. Military officials observed that the destroyer remains partially capsized in the sea.

Despite the damage, officials suggest the ship can be repaired. South Korea’s unification ministry said Kim’s severe language might be aimed at tightening internal discipline.

The failed launch highlights risks in North Korea’s naval expansion. Last month, Pyongyang unveiled the Choe Hyon, a destroyer armed with advanced missiles.