2025 North Korean destroyer launch accident

On 21 May 2025, the Korean People's Navy ship Kang Kon (then-unnamed), the second of the Choe Hyon-class destroyers, experienced a critical failure during its launch at the Chongjin Shipyard in North Korea. The vessel overturned after its stern suddenly slipped into the water while the bow remained on shore, causing extensive hull damage and possibly compromising internal equipment.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un was present at the time and labelled the incident a "criminal act caused by absolute carelessness, irresponsibility and unscientific empiricism", pledging punishment for those responsible. Authorities detained several officials, including the chief engineer and the deputy manager. Kim Jong Un insisted the ship be ready before the Workers' Party meeting in June.

Background

The launch took place at a naval facility in the northeastern port city of Chongjin, where the new destroyer had been under construction. North Korea's state media outlet. Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), reported that the vessel was part of a larger effort to modernize the country's navy. This incident followed the recent launch of another 5,000-ton destroyer named Choe Hyon, which Supreme Leader Kim Jong Un hailed as a major success in naval modernization.

Description

The incident happened during the public unveiling of the new warship. According to satellite imagery and KCNA reports, the destroyer tilted sharply to one side after sustaining damage to its underside. Images also showed the vessel partially covered with a blue tarpaulin and a portion of it resting on land.

While there were no confirmed reports of casualties or injuries, initial reports had suggested that the hull was punctured. However, KCNA later contradicted this, stating, "There was no hole in the bottom of the ship, though the right side was scraped and some sea water entered the rear."

Following repairs and refloating, the vessel was announced to have been launched on June 5, 2025. Following further repairs, a launching ceremony for the vessel was held on June 12, with Kim Jong Un in attendance according to KCNA.

Aftermath

In the aftermath of the accident, North Korean authorities arrested three senior officials from the Chongjin Shipyard—namely, the chief engineer, head of construction, and the administrative manager. KCNA reported that the individuals were deemed "responsible" for the incident.

Furthermore, the shipyard's manager, Hong Kil Ho, was summoned by law enforcement for questioning. Supreme Leader Kim Jong Un described the incident as a "criminal act" and condemned it as a consequence of "extreme carelessness, irresponsibility, and unscientific practices." He announced that disciplinary measures would be addressed at the upcoming plenary session of the ruling party.

Media and public disclosure

The publication of such domestic accidents in North Korean state media is uncommon. However, this incident was openly reported, possibly due to its magnitude and visibility. Analysts suggest that the transparency may be aimed at reinforcing discipline and control within the country’s military-industrial sector.

The mishap occurred only weeks after the unveiling of the destroyer Choe Hyon, which was celebrated as a symbol of North Korea's growing naval capabilities. Kim Jong Un declared that Choe Hyon would become fully operational in the coming year and serve as a key asset in the country’s maritime defense strategy.