Seoul: A partially capsized North Korean destroyer, which suffered a failed launch during a high-profile ceremony attended by leader Kim Jong Un, has been moved to a major naval repair facility for restoration, according to satellite imagery reviewed by a Washington-based think tank.
The Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) reported that the stricken 5,000-ton warship was moved to the graving dock at Rajin Dockyard—also known as the Rajin Ship Repair Factory—by June 8. This dockyard, located near the Russian border, has long served as the production and repair site for many of North Korea’s largest naval vessels.
North Korean state media confirmed the ship would undergo an intensive 7–10 day examination and repair process at the Rajin facility. The restoration efforts mark the latest chapter in what has become an embarrassing setback for Pyongyang’s ambitious naval modernization drive.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, who personally witnessed the failed launch, had labeled the incident a “criminal act”. Following the mishap in May, Pyongyang announced the detention of several officials believed to be responsible. Kim reportedly ordered the vessel to be fully restored before a major ruling party meeting scheduled later this month.
Also Read | South Korea Nears $6 Billion K2 Tank Deal with Poland, Yonhap Reports
“The ship lay on its side in the water after the botched launch, but it was pulled upright,” according to U.S. analysts and the South Korean military.
CSIS noted that after critical repairs are completed, the destroyer is expected to be transferred to the shipyard’s fitting-out dock, where it will receive its weapon systems and undergo final preparations before being commissioned into service.
Also Read | Musk’s xAI Taps Morgan Stanley for $5 Billion Debt as Investor Risk Appetite Tested
These newly launched 5,000-ton destroyers represent North Korea’s most formidable surface warships to date, forming a key part of Kim’s ongoing efforts to strengthen the country’s naval capabilities with missile-equipped vessels.
