Source: New York Times
“North Korea’s attempt to launch its second navy destroyer in a month has failed, dealing a huge embarrassment for its leader, Kim Jong-un, who called it a criminal act and indicated he would punish those responsible. A ‘serious accident’ occurred on Wednesday when North Korea tried to launch a new 5,000-ton destroyer in Chongjin, a port city on its northeastern coast, the North’s official Korean Central News Agency said Thursday. While Mr. Kim was watching, the ship lost balance when its stern slid down the launch slipway while its bow section failed to leave the ramp, it said. The accident tore holes in the ship’s hull, it added. North Korea did not release photos from the scene. It also did not report whether there were any casualties.” (05/22/25)