Satellite imagery has unveiled damage to a North Korean warship following an incident during a visit from leader Kim Jong Un, who has denounced the event as a "criminal act." The shipyard manager is now under scrutiny as the state media reports on the mishap, downplaying the severity.
Satellite Images Reveal North Korean Warship Damage Amid Investigation
Satellite Images Reveal North Korean Warship Damage Amid Investigation
Footage of a significant incident at a North Korean shipyard prompts investigations into negligence.
New satellite imagery has surfaced, providing a detailed look at the aftermath of a shipyard incident in North Korea that left one of its new warships damaged while leader Kim Jong Un was present. The photographs depict the vessel on its side, shielded by large blue tarpaulins, with parts of it appearing to be on land, raising concerns about the circumstances surrounding the accident.
Kim Jong Un referred to the event as a "criminal act" and announced the initiation of an official inquiry. State media reported on Friday that no injuries or fatalities occurred during the incident, which took place in Chongjin, a port city in the east.
North Korea's state news outlet KCNA characterized the damage as "not serious," claiming the ship did not sustain any breaches in its hull. Instead, it reported that the starboard side of the hull had merely been scratched, allowing a limited amount of seawater to seep into the stern through the rescue channel.
In a significant development, the shipyard's manager, Hong Kil Ho, has been called in for questioning by authorities. KCNA indicated that the repairs required to restore the destroyer's side would take approximately ten days.
Kim Jong Un attributed the accident to "absolute carelessness" and "irresponsibility," indicating that further consequences for those responsible would be determined at a plenary meeting next month. Given North Korea's notorious record on human rights, it remains uncertain what actions might be taken against the individuals involved.
It is rare for North Korea to openly discuss local accidents, although there have been instances in the past where it has done so. This incident follows closely on the heels of North Korea showcasing a similar 5,000-ton destroyer, the Choe Hyon, which Kim previously hailed as a revolutionary advancement in the modernization of the nation’s naval capabilities and announced its planned deployment for early next year.
