North Korean leader Kim Jong-un harshly condemned a naval accident last week, calling it a “criminal act of absolute carelessness.” The incident took place during the launch of a 5,000-tonne destroyer at Chongjin port, where the warship capsized and partially sank. Satellite images revealed the vessel toppled and covered with blue tarps, with some sections submerged underwater. Kim personally attended the failed deployment and immediately blamed military officials, scientists, and shipyard workers for the disaster, accusing them of irresponsibility, poor planning, and “unscientific empiricism.”
State media rarely reports military setbacks, but Kim’s strong public criticism highlights his urgent drive to modernize North Korea’s navy. Experts interpret the leader’s stern response as proof that the regime prioritizes rapid naval expansion to counter perceived threats from the United States and neighboring countries. Kim consistently frames military growth as vital for national defense and deterrence.
Following the accident, North Korean authorities detained four senior officials, as reported by the state news agency KCNA. Vice director of the munitions industry department Ri Hyong-son was arrested for bearing “major responsibility” in the collapse. Other detainees include the chief engineer, head of hull construction, and deputy administrative manager. Investigators also summoned the shipyard director for questioning. Public arrests tied to military failures remain rare in North Korea, underlining the seriousness of the event.
Despite Kim’s outrage and the high-profile detentions, state media downplayed the incident, claiming repairs would take only ten days. Outside observers remain doubtful, suspecting Pyongyang is minimizing the damage. The failed launch came shortly after North Korea’s successful deployment of its first destroyer, named Choe Hyon, hailed by Kim as a key milestone in modernizing the naval fleet. Reports suggest this vessel can carry nuclear-capable weapons. South Korean intelligence sources believe Russia assisted in the ship’s development.