North Korea investigates warship accident, Kim calls it 'criminal act'

A rare naval misstep has shaken North Korea’s tightly choreographed military image, prompting an urgent internal probe and public scolding from Kim Jong Un.

North Korea has launched a full-scale investigation into a mishap during the launch of a 5,000-ton warship at its Chongjin shipyard, which leader Kim Jong Un denounced as a "criminal act" that cannot be tolerated, state media reported Friday.

According to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), the accident on Wednesday was due to a loss of balance that caused sections of the ship’s bottom to be crushed. A satellite image released later showed the destroyer listing in the water.

While internal inspections found no holes, scratches were discovered on the starboard hull and seawater had entered the stern through a rescue channel. Experts estimate it could take up to 10 days to repair the damage.

The shipyard manager, Hong Kil Ho, has been detained as authorities pursue those deemed responsible. Kim's harsh rebuke, delivered in front of a large crowd, highlighted the regime’s push to crack down on “incautiousness” and “irresponsibility.”

South Korea’s military confirmed Thursday that the vessel was listing, a rare public embarrassment for the North amid rising tensions in the region.

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