A newly launched 5,000-ton destroyer, a key part of North Korea’s naval modernization, was damaged during its launch ceremony attended by leader Kim Jong Un, according to state media on Thursday. The ship slipped off the ramp and became stuck after the flatcar meant to support it failed to align properly, causing it to lose balance and damaging the ship’s hull, the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported.
The incident at the Chongjin port on Wednesday was a major embarrassment for Kim, who has prioritized naval development as central to his nuclear-armed forces. Kim criticized military officials, scientists, and shipyard workers for what he called a “serious accident and criminal act” due to “complete carelessness, irresponsibility, and unscientific methods.” He has called for a Workers’ Party meeting to address these “irresponsible errors,” with KCNA also announcing a plenary meeting of the party’s Central Committee planned for late June.
The damaged destroyer is believed to be in the same class as North Korea’s first destroyer unveiled on April 25, which experts identified as the country’s largest and most advanced warship so far. Kim has described the vessel as crucial for expanding the military’s operational reach and nuclear strike capabilities. According to state media, the ship was designed to carry various weapons systems, including anti-aircraft and anti-ship missiles, as well as nuclear-capable ballistic and cruise missiles. Kim also supervised missile test-firings from the destroyer and stated it was expected to become operational early next year.
South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff spokesperson Lee Sung Joon said the damaged vessel likely has similar weapon systems and remains overturned in the water.
Kim frames his military buildup as a response to perceived threats from the U.S. and its Asian allies, who have increased joint military drills amid growing tensions over North Korea’s nuclear ambitions. He has indicated that acquiring a nuclear-powered submarine is his next goal for strengthening the navy. Experts believe the destroyer was likely built with Russian assistance. Though North Korea’s navy is generally considered weaker than South Korea’s, analysts view this destroyer as a serious security concern due to its potential to boost North Korea’s offensive and defensive naval capabilities.
Tensions on the Korean Peninsula have heightened recently as Kim accelerates nuclear and missile development and supplies weapons and troops in support of Russia’s war in Ukraine. The U.S., South Korea, and allies worry that Russia might respond by providing North Korea with advanced weapons technology, further enhancing the threat posed by its nuclear and missile programs.