A North Korean naval destroyer that suffered damage during a failed launch last month has recently been successfully launched in a second attempt, with leader Kim Jong Un overseeing the event. The revamped destroyer, named Kang Kon after a prominent general who lost his life during the Korean War, was unveiled in a ceremony held at the Rajin shipyard, located along the northeast coast. This event was reported by Pyongyang’s state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).
Just over two weeks following the initial mishap, which was described as a “serious accident,” the destroyer was successfully floated. Kim declared that the restoration process was completed as scheduled, expressing satisfaction with the outcome. The leader also announced plans to construct two additional destroyer-class vessels in the upcoming year. He emphasized that this decision represents a significant shift in the capabilities and defense strategies of North Korea’s naval forces.
During the ceremony, photographs showed Kim wearing a large straw hat and smiling broadly alongside his daughter, Ju Ae, who is widely speculated to be his potential successor. Kim underscored the growing provocative actions of the United States and its allies, asserting that the threats posed to North Korea’s security have escalated considerably. He reiterated the necessity for enhancing naval capabilities to deter any potential aggression in nearby waters.
The recent successful launch followed a previous incident where the 5,000-ton destroyer was damaged due to a miscalculated “side-launch attempt” in Chongjin, which left parts of the ship crushed and listing in the water. Kim labeled this incident as a “criminal act caused by absolute carelessness” and subsequent reports indicated the detention of four officials connected to the failed attempt. Although there were initial concerns about the extent of the damage, North Korea claimed it was manageable and quickly rectified.
Military analysts in South Korea have remarked that the new destroyer is expected to be comparable to the recently introduced 5,000-ton Choe Hyon destroyer, which North Korea had showcased in April. The Choe Hyon is said to be equipped with cutting-edge weaponry and is anticipated to enter service in early next year. Some analysts believe this ship could feature advanced capabilities, potentially including short-range tactical missiles designed to carry nuclear payloads, despite North Korea’s unconfirmed progress in miniaturizing its nuclear arsenal. The South Korean military has suggested that the Choe Hyon may have benefitted from technical support from Russia, particularly in light of North Korea’s alleged troop deployment to assist Moscow in its conflict in Ukraine.
Experts suggest that North Korea’s recent military advancements may be reciprocated by Russia, given North Korea’s cooperation in the ongoing war effort. Military researcher Hong Sung-pyo noted that North Korea is likely seeking critical funding and sophisticated military technology through its ties with Russia.
In the context of evolving relations, South Korea’s newly elected president, Lee Jae-myung, has promised a more conciliatory stance toward North Korea compared to his hawkish predecessor. His administration has already halted loudspeaker propaganda broadcasts along the border, which were instituted as a response to provocations from the North. Although North Korea had resumed its own propaganda efforts, recent indications suggest these broadcasts may have ceased for the time being.
