North Korea Detains Four Officials Over Failed 5,000-Ton Warship Launch

North Korea has detained multiple officials, including shipyard leaders and engineers, following the failed launch of its second 5,000-ton naval destroyer at Chongjin port, an incident that North Korean leader Kim Jong Un described as caused by criminal negligence. The warship, which is North Korea's largest and most advanced, reportedly suffered damage when a transport cradle detached prematurely, leaving the vessel listing on its side and partially submerged, as confirmed by satellite imagery. While North Korean state media downplays the damage as minor, citing scratches and seawater ingress that can be repaired within about 10 days, outside analysts and satellite assessments suggest the damage may be more extensive, possibly involving flooding and hull breaches. Kim Jong Un has instructed the swift restoration of the vessel ahead of an important party meeting, and the Central Military Commission has emphasized that those responsible will face severe consequences. This incident marks a significant setback for North Korea's naval ambitions amid its push to expand military capabilities, including the deployment of advanced weapons like nuclear missiles on such destroyers. Repair efforts are reportedly ongoing, with authorities working to restore the ship's balance and operational status according to schedule.