Archive · 2 Jun 2025
North Korea's Destroyer Launch Fails, Kim Orders Probe
North Korea tried to launch a new warship, but it didn't go as planned.
The ship tipped over during the launch.
The leader, Kim Jong Un, is very upset.
North Korea says the damage is small and will be fixed quickly.
However, experts outside of North Korea think the damage is much worse and could take a long time to repair.
Kim is now investigating what went wrong and promising punishment for anyone who made mistakes.
This failure has embarrassed North Korea, and is now using the incident as a chance to strengthen its party.
North Korea's destroyer launch failed, sparking Kim Jong Un's outrage.
The ship's stern cradle detached during the launch ceremony.
North Korea claims minor damage and a 10-day repair timeline.
Outside experts suspect significant damage, questioning the official timeframe.
Kim Jong Un has ordered an investigation and vowed punishment for those responsible.
- Who
- Kim Jong Un and North Korean military officials.
- What
- Failed launch of a 5,000-ton-class destroyer.
- When
- Wednesday at the launch ceremony.
- Where
- Northeastern port of Chongjin, North Korea.
- Why
- A transport cradle detached during the launch, leading to the failure.
Outside Observers
North Korean Account
Extent of Damage
Outside Observers
Damage likely much worse, potentially including flooded engine room and hull holes.
North Korean Account
Damage is not serious; mainly scratches and water.
Repair Time
Outside Observers
Repairs could take over a year due to the extent of the damage.
North Korean Account
Ten days to repair.
- Destroyer Class
- 5,000-ton-class
- Launch Site
- Chongjin, North Korea
- Reported Damage
- Starboard side scratched, seawater in stern
- Reported Repair Time
- 10 days
- Cause of Failure
- Transport cradle detached during launch
- Leader Involved
- Kim Jong Un