Kim Jong Un blames negligence for new warship disaster
- During a launching ceremony at Chongjin Shipyard, North Korea's new 5,000-ton destroyer suffered severe damage due to technical failure.
- Kim Jong Un labeled the incident a 'criminal act' driven by negligence from state institutions.
- The accident has raised concerns over North Korea's naval capabilities and Kim's ambitions for military modernization.
North Korea experienced a serious mishap during the launch of a newly constructed 5,000-ton destroyer at the Chongjin Shipyard on a Wednesday. The incident occurred while leader Kim Jong Un was present, and it resulted from a technical failure in the launch mechanism, causing significant structural damage to the vessel. Parts of the ship’s bottom were crushed, preventing a complete launch and leading to it becoming stranded. State media did not report any injuries as a result of the accident. Kim Jong Un described the incident as a 'serious accident' and a 'criminal act', attributing it to the negligence of multiple state agencies including the Munitions Industry Department and researchers from relevant scientific institutes. He expressed his dissatisfaction by stating that such carelessness and irresponsibility could not be tolerated and emphasized that it has severely damaged the prestige of the nation. A party meeting is planned for June, where those responsible will face consequences for their actions. This accident is particularly notable given the significance Kim placed on the new warship as part of his naval advancement strategy, which is seen as essential for enhancing North Korea's military capabilities in light of perceived threats from the United States and South Korea. Kim has previously stated the need for a robust naval presence and expanding the military’s operational range, including nuclear capabilities. The ship had been promoted as a key asset in this modernization effort. The failure to successfully launch the destroyer not only represents a technical setback but also undermines Kim's ambitions of constructing a more capable navy, capable of engaging in operations beyond the immediate vicinity of the Korean Peninsula. Military analysts have indicated that the damage incurred may be catastrophic and could hinder North Korea's long-term naval goals. North Korea's naval forces have historically been less developed compared to other branches of its military, making this incident a critical moment for their modernization plans.