Pyongyang: North Korean authorities have detained multiple shipyard officials following a high-profile accident during the launch of a new 5,000-tonne warship, according to state-run media. The incident, which occurred in the northeastern port city of Chongjin, reportedly took place in the presence of leader Kim Jong Un.
Kim, who had personally attended the launch, expressed strong disapproval over the mishap, declaring it a blow to the nation’s dignity and pledging accountability for those responsible.
“The accident damaged the country’s dignity,” Kim was quoted as saying, according to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA). He vowed that those at fault would be “punished” and called for the full restoration of the warship before a major ruling party gathering in June.
Analysts say the incident, likely witnessed by a large crowd, added to the regime’s embarrassment, especially given the symbolic weight Pyongyang attaches to displays of military strength.
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As part of the investigation, North Korean law enforcement has arrested several key figures, including the chief engineer at Chongjin Shipyard, KCNA reported.
Satellite imagery reviewed by the U.S.-based Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) shows the vessel in a damaged position — tilted on its side under blue tarps, with the stern in the harbor and the bow still on the slipway.
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Despite the setback, Kim has ordered the vessel to be fully restored ahead of the upcoming Workers’ Party meeting, and state media indicated that repair operations are underway.
In a separate report, KCNA cited a defence ministry policy chief who issued a warning in response to increased U.S. military presence in the region. North Korea’s armed forces, the official said, “will thoroughly contain and control all sorts of military threats from the enemy countries.”
