Thu May 22 08:00:16 UTC 2025: **NEWS ARTICLE**
**North Korea’s Second Destroyer Damaged in Failed Launch, Kim Jong-un Blames Officials**
**Seoul, South Korea – May 22, 2025** – North Korea’s second naval destroyer suffered damage during its launch this week, according to state media, marking an embarrassing setback for leader Kim Jong-un’s ambitious naval modernization program. The incident occurred at the northeastern port of Chongjin on Wednesday, May 21st, when the newly constructed 5,000-ton-class destroyer became unbalanced, resulting in punctures to its bottom after a transport cradle malfunctioned.
While North Korea rarely acknowledges military failures, the disclosure suggests Kim Jong-un’s determination to advance his naval capabilities. According to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), Kim Jong-un, present at the launch, attributed the incident to the “absolute carelessness, irresponsibility, and unscientific empiricism” of military officials, scientists, and shipyard operators. He has called for a Workers’ Party meeting in late June to address the “irresponsible errors.”
“It’s a shameful thing,” KCNA quoted Kim saying. However, North Korea disclosed the incident in order to show that it is speeding up the modernization of its navy forces, and to express confidence that it can eventually build a greater navy,” said Moon Keun-sik, a navy expert who teaches at Seoul’s Hanyang University. Experts believe the workers may have been rushed and lacked experience with such large warships.
The damaged vessel is believed to be of the same class as the ‘Choe Hyon,’ North Korea’s first destroyer unveiled in April. It is their largest and most advanced warship to date, designed to carry various weapon systems, including anti-air and anti-ship missiles, as well as nuclear-capable ballistic and cruise missiles.
Lee Sung-joon, spokesperson for South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff, said the damaged vessel was likely equipped with similar systems.
Recent satellite imagery indicated the construction of the second destroyer at the Chongjin shipyard. Some analysts suggest Russian assistance in the construction, reflecting the growing military partnership between the two nations.
Despite North Korea’s naval inferiority compared to South Korea, the destroyer is considered a significant security threat, capable of enhancing offensive and defensive capabilities.
Hours after reporting the failed launch, North Korea test-fired multiple cruise missiles from near Sondok, continuing its pattern of weapons testing. South Korean and U.S. intelligence authorities are analyzing the launches.
Kim Jong-un has justified the arms build-up as a response to perceived threats from the U.S. and its allies, amidst increasing tensions over North Korea’s nuclear program. His next goal is acquiring a nuclear-powered submarine to further strengthen the navy.
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