Kim Jong Un Condemns Serious North Korean Warship Launch Accident

North Korea experienced a significant setback during the launch of a new 5,000-ton warship at the Chongjin Shipyard, witnessed firsthand by leader Kim Jong Un. The launch failed due to operational errors, including premature release of the stern sled which caused the ship to lose balance and sustain structural damage, notably to the keel and hull. Kim sharply criticized the incident as a "criminal act" caused by negligence and demanded urgent repairs, emphasizing that restoring the ship was a matter of national dignity and political importance ahead of a June ruling party meeting. He also held various top officials and institutions accountable, warning they would face consequences at the upcoming Central Committee plenary meeting. Despite this public rebuke, North Korea continues to advance its naval ambitions. The incident marks a rare public acknowledgment of failure within the regime and highlights internal pressures on military and industrial sectors.