The Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) has detained three senior shipyard officials following a significant accident during the launch of a new 5,000-tonne warship, state media reported on Sunday.
Kim Jong Un, general secretary of the Workers’ Party of Korea and president of the State Affairs of the DPRK, witnessed the failed launch and condemned the incident as a “criminal act” that tarnished the nation’s dignity.
“This is not merely a practical issue but a political issue directly related to the authority of the state,” Kim stated, urging the immediate restoration of the damaged destroyer.
Amid an ongoing investigation, authorities arrested Kang Jong Chol, the chief engineer of the Chongjin Shipyard; Han Kyong Hak, head of the hull construction workshop; and Kim Yong Hak, deputy manager for administrative affairs, according to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).
The accident has drawn significant attention as it highlights challenges within the DPRK’s military developments. The detained officials are being held accountable for the mishap, and the government emphasizes the importance of upholding the nation’s prestige.
