North Korea has launched a comprehensive probe into an accident that occurred during the launch of a warship this week, state media KCNA reported on Friday.
The incident, which took place on Wednesday, was attributed to a loss of balance during the vessel’s launch, causing sections of the warship’s bottom to be crushed. An internal inspection revealed no holes in the hull, but the starboard side was scratched, allowing seawater to enter the stern through a rescue channel.
Authorities assessed the damage as “not serious” but ordered an investigation to determine the cause and hold those responsible accountable. The report did not mention any casualties.
Leader Kim Jong Un, who witnessed the 5,000-ton destroyer’s launch at the Chongjin shipyard in the northeast, condemned the incident as an “unforgivable criminal act.” Analysts suggest the public nature of the mishap may have compounded the embarrassment for the regime.
South Korea’s military observed the ship lying on its side in the water, while satellite imagery analyzed by the U.S.-based Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) showed the stern submerged after support structures slid into the harbor, leaving the bow on the slipway.
CSIS noted that the Chongjin shipyard, primarily used for building cargo and fishing vessels, lacks experience in launching large warships. KCNA reported that refloating the vessel could take two to three days, with full repairs requiring around 10 days.
The North Korean government framed the investigation as part of a broader crackdown on “negligence and irresponsibility.” Hong Kil Ho, manager of the Chongjin shipyard, was summoned for questioning as authorities began detaining and interrogating those involved.