North Korean military capabilities

North Korea Arrests Fourth Official After Failed Warship Launch

Following a failed warship launch, North Korea has arrested a fourth official, Ri Hyong Son, the highest-ranking official detained so far. Three shipyard officials were previously arrested for their roles in the incident, which resulted in damage to the 5,000-ton destroyer. State media reported that repairs are underway, although outside observers estimate a longer timeframe than the government’s ten-day projection. Leader Kim Jong Un condemned the incident as a result of “absolute carelessness” and “irresponsibility.”

Read More

North Korea Detains Shipyard Officials After Destroyer Launch Failure

Following the failed launch of a new North Korean destroyer, four officials have been arrested for criminal negligence. The incident, which occurred during a ceremony attended by Kim Jong Un, severely damaged the vessel and prompted the leader’s ire. Those detained include a high-ranking party official and three shipyard employees, highlighting Kim’s commitment to his military modernization plans and strict disciplinary measures. While the exact punishments remain unclear, this action underscores the gravity of the incident and Kim’s zero-tolerance approach to setbacks in his ambitious weapons program.

Read More

North Korea’s New Warship Sinks During Launch: Kim Jong Un’s Day Goes South

A new North Korean destroyer, launched with Kim Jong Un in attendance, suffered a significant accident during its launch ceremony, sliding off its transport and sustaining bottom damage. The incident, attributed to negligence and inexperience, was described by Kim as a “criminal act” resulting in the censure of responsible officials. The damaged vessel, possessing capabilities similar to North Korea’s first destroyer, is slated for repair before a key party meeting. Despite this setback, North Korea also launched multiple cruise missiles on the same day.

Read More

North Korea Warship Launch Fails; Kim Jong-un Furious

A new North Korean destroyer’s launch ceremony ended in disaster when the 5,000-tonne vessel tipped during its unveiling, causing significant hull damage. Kim Jong-un attributed the incident to “absolute carelessness and irresponsibility,” ordering repairs before a key party meeting. The incident, deemed a “criminal act,” reportedly resulted in crushed sections of the ship’s bottom and prompted disciplinary action against responsible officials. South Korea confirmed the vessel was lying on its side, and speculation arose regarding potential Russian assistance in its construction.

Read More

North Korean Warship Launch Ends in Catastrophic Failure

A serious accident during the launch of a new North Korean 5,000-ton destroyer resulted in damage to the vessel’s bottom, prompting leader Kim Jong Un to label the incident a “criminal act” due to negligence. The mishap, witnessed by Kim, led to accusations of “inexperienced command and operational carelessness,” and those responsible face consequences. South Korea’s military reported that the launch attempt, using an outdated side-launch method, failed, and the damaged ship is now listing. The incident occurred alongside the launch of multiple cruise missiles, and speculation suggests potential Russian involvement in the destroyer’s construction.

Read More

North Korean Troops in Ukraine: Elite Soldiers, Not Cannon Fodder

Two captured North Korean soldiers, receiving medical treatment in Kyiv, have expressed differing desires regarding their future—one wishing to remain in Ukraine, the other to return home. President Zelenskyy suggested a potential prisoner exchange with Russia involving these soldiers and Ukrainian POWs. The ongoing conflict in the Kursk region sees Ukrainian forces battling both Russian and North Korean troops, with significant reported North Korean casualties. These developments highlight the unexpected involvement of North Korean soldiers in the war and the complex geopolitical ramifications.

Read More