The Kim Jong Un launch of a 5,000-ton destroyer ended in disaster on Wednesday. During the ceremony at Chongjin port, the warship lost balance and tipped over while entering the water. Kim witnessed the failure firsthand and condemned it as a “criminal act,” blaming severe negligence and flawed planning, according to KCNA.
Kim criticized the event as an embarrassment to national dignity. He ordered the destroyer to be fully restored before a key Workers’ Party meeting in June. He emphasized that the failure was not just technical—it undermined the authority of the state itself.
State media reported that the ship lost balance during a side-launch. Its lower hull collapsed upon impact with the water. South Korea’s military confirmed that the warship lay sideways at the harbor following the failed Kim Jong Un launch.
South Korean and U.S. intelligence had already tracked activity around the launch site before the incident. Observers had anticipated a significant unveiling. This was North Korea’s second attempt in 2024 to debut a large warship in Kim’s presence.
In April, Kim oversaw the launch of another destroyer at Nampho shipyard on the west coast. The vessels are the largest warships North Korea has ever produced. However, the recent failure suggests the regime faces challenges in scaling up naval capabilities.
Experts at 38 North noted that North Korea likely used a side-launch method out of necessity. The shipyard lacked an inclined slipway, which typically allows stern-first deployment. Satellite images from the day before the accident showed the vessel on the quay, flanked by support vessels with missile tubes exposed.
Instead of concealing the failure, Kim acted quickly. He publicly addressed the accident and criticized officials for their irresponsibility. Analysts believe this move aimed to maintain control and prevent negative rumors from spreading.
Cheong Seong-chang from the Sejong Institute in Seoul explained that this reflects Kim’s style of leadership. “He chooses to confront problems openly, then uses them to tighten control,” Cheong said.
Despite the failure, North Korea continues to advance its military objectives. The failed Kim Jong Un launch may now become a political rallying point. It gives the leadership a new opportunity to reinforce unity and urgency ahead of June’s party meeting.
