SEOUL, South Korea (AP) – Authorities in North Korea have recently taken into custody three shipyard officials after a naval destroyer failed to launch, according to national media on Sunday regarding the leader’s incident involving Kim Jong-un.
The incident involved 5,000-ton class destroyers. On Wednesday, the launch ceremony at the northeastern port of Chongjin, attended by Kim, was abruptly closed as the ship’s stern transport malfunctioned. Satellite imagery of the area revealed the ship lying on its side, covered with a blue tarp, with part of it submerged.
This marks North Korea’s second known destroyer. The failed launch represents a setback for Kim, who has been keen on expanding his naval capabilities in response to what he perceives as a military threat from the U.S.
North Korea had recently celebrated the launch of its first destroyer, accompanied by significant fanfare for a 5,000-ton class vessel last month. These ships are touted as the largest and most advanced warships in North Korea, designed to carry various weapons, including nuclear missiles, as reported by state media.
The Chief Engineer, Head of the Hal Construction Workshop, and Deputy Manager of Management at the Jeongjin Shipyard have all been detained.
Hong Kil Ho, the shipyard manager, was also called in for questioning, as reported by KCNA.
Kim has criticized military officials, scientists, and shipyard operators for what he described as “criminal acts resulting from gross negligence, irresponsibility, and unscientific empiricism.”
In directives to investigators on Thursday, North Korea’s powerful central medical committee echoed Kim’s sentiments, asserting that the leadership of the group would “never evade responsibility for the crime.”
North Korea disputed claims that the warship suffered severe damage, stating that the hull on the right side was merely scratched and that some seawater had entered the stern.
On Friday, North Korea announced it would require approximately 10 days for repairs, although many outside observers believe the damage might have been downplayed.
Source: apnews.com