North Korean officials have been detained over a recent warship accident that damaged a 5,000-tonne vessel during its launch. Leader Kim Jong Un vowed to punish those responsible, saying the incident damaged the country’s dignity.
The failed launch occurred at the northeastern port of Chongjin, where a large crowd was present. Experts say this increased public humiliation for Kim as he attempted to show off military might.
An investigation led to the arrest of shipyard officials, including the chief engineer. The US-based Center for Strategic and International Studies reported that satellite imagery showed the warship with blue tarps covering it after the accident.
Despite the incident, Kim has ordered the ship’s restoration before a ruling party meeting in June. North Korea’s armed forces will “thoroughly contain” military threats from enemy countries, according to KCNA news agency.
Source: https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/north-korea-detains-officials-over-warship-accident-state-media-says-2025-05-24