North Korea Faces Another Navy Setback as Second Destroyer Launch Fails

Thursday, May 22, 2025 – North Korea has confirmed that a second navy destroyer was damaged during a failed launch at the Chongjin Hambuk Shipyard, marking another big embarrassment for leader Kim Jong Un.

The news was reported by state-run media outlet KCNA, which admitted the accident and blamed inexperienced handling and poor planning.

What Happened?

According to the KCNA report, a “serious accident” occurred during the destroyer’s launch. The cause was said to be “inexperienced command” and “operational carelessness.”

Kim Jong Un’s Reaction

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, who personally observed the failed launch, was not pleased. He strongly criticized the team responsible, calling the incident: “A serious accident and a criminal act caused by sheer carelessness, irresponsibility, and unscientific behavior.”

Kim warned that such mistakes “should never occur and could not be tolerated.”

A Blow to Naval Plans

This incident is a major setback for Kim Jong Un’s goal to modernize North Korea’s navy. It comes after a previous failure and adds pressure on the country’s military leadership to deliver better results.

The KCNA did not provide full details on the damage or what happens next, but sources say the launch was meant to be a show of strength.