NewsNorth Korean destroyer launch failure sparks Kim's fury

North Korean destroyer launch failure sparks Kim's fury

North Korea is dealing with the aftermath of a failed launch of its new naval destroyer. Satellite images reveal the extent of the damage, provoking Kim Jong Un's anger.

Destroyed naval destroyer in North Korea. Satellite image
Destroyed naval destroyer in North Korea. Satellite image
Images source: © EPA, PAP | MAXAR TECHNOLOGIES HANDOUT
Anna Wajs-Wiejacka

Key information

  • North Korea's new naval destroyer was damaged during its launching ceremony.
  • Kim Jong Un blames military personnel and scientists for the incident.
  • Satellite images show the ship partially submerged in water.

During the launching ceremony of the new naval destroyer in North Korea, a significant incident occurred. The 5,500-tonne ship was damaged, resulting in the anger of the country’s leader, Kim Jong Un. Fox News reported that satellite images taken by Maxar Technologies show the vessel partially submerged in water and covered with a blue tarp. Previous observations showed the ship in pristine condition.

The failed launch of the destroyer was meant to demonstrate North Korea’s military strength but ended in humiliation. Known for his strictness, Kim Jong Un blamed the incident on military personnel, scientists, and shipyard workers. Reports indicate that the leader described the event as a "serious accident and criminal act caused by absolute carelessness, irresponsibility and unscientific empiricism."

The ship was damaged when the transport platform malfunctioned, causing the vessel to tilt and damage the hull. Kim Jong Un demanded repairs to the ship before the June meeting of the Workers' Party.

Doesn't tolerate failures

Kim Jong Un warned that investigations into the errors resulting from "irresponsibility" by those responsible will be conducted before the June meeting of the Workers' Party. The North Korean leader is known for his harsh governing methods and intolerance towards failure.

Under Kim Jong Un's leadership, North Korea has been intensively developing its military capabilities. In March of this year, Kim personally oversaw tests of suicide drones and also announced plans to build a nuclear-powered submarine.

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