SEOUL, May 26 (AJP) - North Korea has begun restoring a newly developed warship that was severely damaged during its launch ceremony last week, according to a report by the state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) on Sunday.
The 5,000-ton-class destroyer sustained major damage on May 21 at the northeastern port of Chongjin. During the launch event, attended by North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, the warship’s stern reportedly detached from its transport cradle and tipped to one side, partially submerging in seawater.
Kim was said to have reacted with visible anger, calling the failed launch a critical and unacceptable accident. He reportedly ordered military authorities to complete full restoration of the vessel by the end of June.
KCNA stated that restoration work is underway “according to schedule” under the technical guidance of a team of experts, with efforts currently focused on stabilizing the ship’s balance. The report also noted that Ri Hyong-son, vice department director of the Munitions Industry Department of the ruling Workers’ Party, has been summoned and detained in connection with the incident.
reporter
Park Sae-jin
swatchsjp@ajunews.com
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