North Korea's naval blunder: Kim Jong Un demands answers
North Korea is dealing with the aftermath of a failed launch of its new naval destroyer, as satellite images expose the extent of the damage, inciting Kim Jong Un's anger.
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.
At the launching ceremony of the new naval destroyer in North Korea, a significant incident took place. The 5,600-metric-tonne ship was damaged, which greatly angered the country’s leader, Kim Jong Un. According to Fox News, satellite images from Maxar Technologies depict the vessel partly submerged and covered with a blue tarp. Previous observations showed the ship in perfect condition.
The launch failure was intended to showcase North Korea’s military prowess, but it resulted in embarrassment. Known for his strictness, Kim Jong Un blamed military personnel, scientists, and shipyard workers for the incident. Reports indicate that the leader described it as a "serious accident and criminal act caused by absolute carelessness, irresponsibility and unscientific empiricism."
The ship sustained damage when the transport platform malfunctioned, causing the vessel to tilt and impair the hull. Kim Jong Un demanded that repairs be completed before the June meeting of the Workers' Party.
Doesn't tolerate failures
Kim Jong Un warned that investigations into the errors caused by "irresponsibility" among those responsible will be conducted before the June Workers' Party meeting. The North Korean leader is notorious for his harsh governance and intolerance of failure.
Under Kim Jong Un's leadership, North Korea has been vigorously advancing its military capabilities. In March of this year, Kim personally oversaw tests of "suicide drones" and announced plans to construct a nuclear-powered submarine.
