2026年9月10日

North Korea's “5,000-ton Destroyer” Launch Accident: Senior Officials Detained, Vice Minister Ri Hyong-sun Takes the Fall

According to KCNA, on May 21, North Korea's newly built 5,000-ton destroyer suffered a major accident during its launch ceremony at the Chongjin Shipyard, drawing significant domestic attention.

Following the incident, North Korea quickly formed an investigation team to conduct a thorough probe. On May 22, the shipyard’s director, Hong Ji-ho, was summoned to the judiciary. On May 24, the investigation team reported the preliminary findings to the Central Military Commission of the Workers' Party of Korea.

On May 25, the investigation entered a new stage: Vice Minister of Munitions Industry, Ri Hyong-sun, was detained by the judiciary for being identified as bearing major responsibility. In addition, several other key officials—including Chief Engineer Kang Jong-chol, Assembly Workshop Head Han Kyong-hak, and Deputy Director Kim Yong-hak—were also detained and held accountable.

At the accident site, a team of experts is carrying out repair work, aiming to restore the destroyer’s balance and operational capabilities as soon as possible. The authorities have stated that the investigation and legal proceedings are still ongoing, and further actions are expected.

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