By William Miller, for Eurasia Business News, June 14, 2025. Article no. 1558.

North Korea has successfully relaunched its 5,000-ton warship after a failed launch attempt in May, when the vessel capsized during its initial deployment. The warship, one of the largest ever built by North Korea, was damaged in the May incident at the Chongjin Shipyard, which Kim Jong Un described as a “criminal act” caused by negligence. Following the capsizing, the ship was refloated and repaired at the Rajin Shipyard, with the restoration completed in less than a month, despite skepticism from experts about the rapid repair timeline.

Kim Jong Un attended the relaunch ceremony on June 12, accompanied by his daughter Kim Ju Ae, and expressed confidence that the incident would not hinder North Korea’s naval modernization efforts. He emphasized plans to build two additional 5,000-ton destroyers next year and highlighted the strategic importance of strengthening North Korea’s naval presence in the Pacific Ocean, citing provocations from the United States and its allies. Kim stated that the enhanced naval capabilities would soon demonstrate North Korea’s ability to operate warships near the territorial waters of adversaries.

The warship is equipped with advanced missile systems, including supersonic cruise missiles and tactical ballistic missiles, and is expected to be handed over to the navy around mid-2026. This vessel is part of the Choe Hyon class, representing a significant step in North Korea’s efforts to develop a nuclear-capable navy. Four officials, including a high-ranking party official, were detained following the failed launch, with Kim Jong Un blaming the accident on carelessness and irresponsibility.

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© Copyright 2025 – Eurasia Business News. Article no. 1558.