The Korean Central News Agency reported on the 22nd that a 'major incident' occurred during the launch ceremony of a newly constructed 5,000-ton class destroyer at Chongjin Shipyard on the 21st.
Kim Jong-un, General Secretary of the Workers' Party of Korea and Chairman of the State Affairs Commission, observed the launch ceremony and issued harsh criticism, stating that the incident was a 'major accident and criminal act, both unacceptable and inexcusable.'
The report stated that the destroyer 'during the launch, due to unfamiliar command and careless operation, failed to maintain the parallel movement of the chassis. As a result, the launch sled at the stern portion detached prematurely, creating a hole in the hull which caused instability, and the bow section remained attached to the launch platform.'
Kim Jong-un remarked that this incident was 'entirely caused by carelessness, irresponsibility, and unscientific empiricism,' damaging the dignity and pride of North Korea. The responsibility for the incident lies entirely with the Workers' Party Central Committee’s Military Needs Industry Department, the Central Ship Design Research Institute, and the relevant personnel of Chongjin Shipyard.
He said that this irresponsible serious mistake will be subject to a formal review at the Workers' Party Central Committee plenary meeting to be held next month.
He emphasized: 'The swift repair of the destroyer is a political issue directly related to national authority, not merely a business matter.'
He demanded that the repair work be 'unconditionally' completed before the plenary meeting next month.