North Korea’s warship relaunch on a second try has reignited international unease, especially after the vessel’s dramatic failure in May. The 5,000-ton destroyer capsized shortly after its initial debut, triggering a harsh internal crackdown. Now, under Kim Jong Un’s supervision, the warship has been restored and reintroduced to the fleet, far faster than military analysts expected.
The speed of the relaunch has sparked global scepticism over its stability and readiness. Still, Kim’s aggressive message was clear: the regime is determined to build a powerful, nuclear-armed navy quickly. His daughter, Kim Ju Ae, also made an appearance, signalling a possible long-term dynastic military agenda.
Kim’s fury drives North Korea’s warship relaunch
The North Korea warship relaunched on a second try following an embarrassing setback when the vessel capsized during its first launch last month. Furious, Kim Jong Un immediately ordered swift repairs and punished those involved. Four officials, including three shipyard staff and a senior commander, were reportedly arrested.
According to state media, the ship was fully restored and relaunched at Rajin Port with Kim and his daughter overseeing the event. But the rushed timeline, just weeks after satellite images showed the warship partially submerged, has experts questioning the repair quality. Images now show the ship moored and afloat, but military analysts remain cautious about its seaworthiness.
Warship relaunch signals expansion
North Korea’s warship relaunch on its second try is part of a broader naval push. The destroyer is one of two 5,000-ton ships launched since April, and the largest in Pyongyang’s fleet. It is believed to be capable of launching nuclear weapons, matching Kim’s ambition for a nuclear-armed navy.
Kim addressed the crowd, stating the failed launch had not hindered progress and warned adversaries of the country’s growing power. “Soon, enemies will experience how provocative and unpleasant it is to sit and watch the ships of an adversary run rampant on the fringes of sovereign waters,” he declared.