North Korea has detained officials from the Chongjin Shipyard responsible for a recent failed warship launch that damaged a 5,000-ton naval destroyer, according to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA). Law enforcement officials, including the shipyard’s chief engineer, were arrested following the incident. Supreme Leader Kim Jong Un reportedly was distressed by the failed launch, which he witnessed, calling it a damage to the nation’s dignity and promising retribution for those accountable. Satellite images revealed the damaged warship, with assessment showing blue tarps covering the vessel, indicating ongoing repair efforts. The failed launch occurred at the northeastern port of Chongjin in front of a large crowd, intensifying the embarrassment for Kim, who has taken measures to exhibit his military’s strength. Kim has blamed military officials, scientists, and shipyard operators for the serious accident and has ordered the restoration of the ship before a ruling party meeting in June. The accident was caused when a flatcar guiding the ship failed to move during launch. Kate reported on the incident, asserting that North Korea’s armed forces will vigilantly combat any military threats from enemy nations, in response to the U.S. military’s presence in the region. Under Kim’s leadership, North Korea has prioritized developing an arsenal of weapons, justifying this as a defense against Western aggression.
Source: https://www.foxnews.com/world/north-korea-detains-shipyard-officials-failed-launch-naval-destroyer-damaged-state-media
