North Korea detains four officials over failed launch of naval destroyer

North Korea detains officials over failed naval destroyer launch, sparking concerns over accountability and military transparency.

North Korea has detained four officials who it says are responsible for the failed launch of its second naval destroyer, which outside observers say was damaged much more than the country has disclosed.

The detentions came after leader Kim Jong-un expressed fury over Wednesday's (May 21, 2025) incident that he said was caused by criminal negligence. The main military committee said on Friday (May 23, 2025) that those responsible would be held accountable for their “unpardonable criminal act.” Satellite imagery showed the vessel lying on its side and draped in blue covers, with parts of it submerged. North Korea says it will take about 10 days to repair the damage, but outside observers question that timeframe because they suspect the damage is much worse.

The official Korean Central News Agency said on Friday (May 23, 2025) the severity of the damage to the 5,000-tonne-class destroyer was “not serious” as it cancelled an earlier assessment that the bottom of the hull had been left with holes.

KCNA said the hull on the starboard side was scratched and some seawater had flowed into the stern. It said it needs 10 days to pump out the seawater, set the ship upright and fix the scratches. KCNA said on Monday (May 26, 2025) that the work to restore the ship's balance was being conducted as scheduled.

KCNA said that law enforcement authorities detained Ri Hyong-son, vice-director of the munitions industry department at the ruling Workers Party's Central Committee, who said it was “greatly responsible” for the failed launch.

KCNA reported on Sunday (May 25, 2025) that the authorities also detained three officials at Chongjin Shipyard — the chief engineer, head of the hull construction workshop and deputy manager for administrative affairs. It earlier reported that Hong Kil Ho, manager of the Chongjin shipyard, had been summoned for questioning.