North Korea launches repaired destroyer after initial failed attempt

Yonhap — Naval officers attend a ceremony launching a destroyer at a shipyard in Rajin in North Korea on June 12, 2025, in this photo released by the state-run [North] Korean Central News Agency the following day.

SEOUL, June 13 (AJP) - North Korea has launched a large destroyer, after its initial failed attempt last month, state media reported on Friday.

The official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) said the 5,000-ton destroyer, named after North Korea’s historical naval hero Kang Kon, was launched at a shipyard in the northeastern port city of Rajin after weeks of repair work.

The country's leader Kim Jong-un oversaw the launch along with his daughter, Ju-ae, who was dressed in a white romper and looked more mature than in her previous public appearances.

Kang Kon was an "anti-Japanese revolutionary fighter" who served as North Korea's first army chief until he died during the Korean War.

During its initial launch at a facility in the nearby port city of Chongjin on May 21, the warship accidentally capsized, with most of its hull submerged, prompting Kim to order immediate repairs. The incident was a huge embarrassment for Kim as he was there to apparently show off the country's military might.

Under Kim's orders to complete repairs by the end of June, the damaged destroyer was raised within just two weeks and fully restored in less than a month.

According to KCNA, Kim "awarded commemorative copper coins to major commanding officers of the destroyer and had a photo session" with them, with plans to build more such vessels in the coming years.

Im Yoon-seo lyseo0330@ajupress.com

North Korea launches repaired destroyer after initial failed attempt

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