North Korea raises damaged warship after failed launch

North Korea has successfully raised a 5,000-ton naval destroyer that capsized during a failed launch in May.

According to state media, the ship is now upright and docked at Chongjin, a northeastern port city.

The state news agency KCNA said leader Kim Jong Un has ordered the warship’s repairs to be finished by the end of this month. Jo Chun Ryong, a senior official from the ruling Workers’ Party, promised the destroyer will be fully restored without delay.

Kim strongly condemned the failed launch, calling it a “criminal act caused by absolute carelessness.” Four officials have been arrested as part of the investigation.

While the ship suffered damage, KCNA stated last month that inspections showed the harm was not serious. Experts will now examine the hull in more detail.

This warship is North Korea’s second known destroyer, following the unveiling of the Choe Hyon last month. Reports from North Korean media say the destroyer can carry various weapons, including nuclear missiles.

South Korean intelligence analysts suggest the Choe Hyon may have been developed with Russian assistance, possibly linked to North Korean troops supporting Russia’s war efforts in Ukraine.

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