North Korea relaunched its 5,000-tonne warship on Thursday. This move came just two weeks after the ship tipped over during its initial launch. That incident drew harsh criticism from Kim Jong Un.
According to state-run media KCNA, workers restored the ship’s balance earlier this week. Now, it is moored at a pier. KCNA also mentioned that full restoration will be completed before a major ruling party meeting this month.
Kim Slams Failed Launch
Kim Jong Un personally witnessed the earlier failed launch. He expressed his anger openly. He called the incident a “criminal act” that “severely damaged the [country’s] dignity and pride.”
He blamed the failure on “absolute carelessness, irresponsibility and unscientific empiricism.”
Arrests Follow Leadership’s Fury
Authorities quickly responded to the failed launch. They arrested at least four officials. Among them was Ri Hyong-son, deputy director of the Workers’ Party’s Munitions Industry Department. He also serves on the Central Military Commission, which directs military policy.
While the government hasn’t revealed the officials’ punishment, North Korea is known for severe penalties. These can include forced labor or even execution.
Workers Used Balloons to Fix Ship
Researchers from 38 North, a U.S.-based analysis group, monitored the repairs. They reported that workers rebalanced the warship manually. They used tethers and barrage balloons to straighten it. In fact, satellite images showed some balloons still tied to the ship even after the relaunch.
Strong Response Meant to Send Message
Experts believe Kim’s reaction was more than emotional. Jihoon Yu, a defense analyst from South Korea, said, “The failure may harden their resolve.” He added, “Kim’s unusually severe response is aimed at protecting the leader’s image and reasserting his authority.”
Michael Madden, a North Korea expert from the Stimson Center, echoed this view. He said the leader’s words show that building a stronger navy is now a “high priority” for the regime.
Kim Praised Earlier Warship
Just weeks before the failed launch, Pyongyang showed off a similar vessel elsewhere. Kim called that ship a major “breakthrough” in modernizing the navy. He said it would be deployed early next year.