North Korea’s launch of its Choe Hyon-class destroyer has exposed deeply rooted flaws in the country’s military projection strategies.
At a Glance
- On May 21, 2025, North Korea’s new destroyer launch failed, causing significant vessel damage.
- Satellite images showed the ship partially submerged, indicating severe launch issues.
- The Hambuk Shipyard’s lack of big warship expertise raises concerns.
- Kim Jong-un’s vehement response includes stern warnings to involved officials.
- Efforts are ongoing to repair and right the destroyer, with unclear outcomes.
A Serious Launch Setback
On May 21, 2025, North Korea attempted to launch the second Choe Hyon-class destroyer at Chongjin. The 5,511-ton vessel capsized post-launch, exposing crucial flaws. Satellite imagery on May 22 confirmed significant damage, showing the stern in the harbor and the bow on the slipway due to wheeled units sliding into the water.
The Hambuk Shipyard selection for construction was questionable given its typical production of cargo and fishing vessels. This choice coupled with a rushed schedule contributed to the botched launch.
Embarrassment and Consequences
The failed launch poses a significant embarrassment to Kim Jong-un and the Korean People’s Navy, potentially delaying the destroyer’s operational service or resulting in a complete loss. Such mishaps threaten Kim’s aspirations for a potent blue-water naval force.
“He seriously warned that the errors caused by the irresponsibility of the relevant officials of the Munitions Industry Department of the WPK Central Committee, the Mechanical Institute of the State Academy of Sciences, Kim Chaek University of Technology, the Central Ship Design Institute and other relevant units and the Chongjin Shipyard responsible for the accident that lowered the dignity and self-respect of our state in a moment would have to be dealt with at the plenary meeting of the Party Central Committee to be convened next month, and censured them for the fault.” – Rodong Sinmun.
Kim Jong-un criticized the involved parties, emphasizing accountability. Ri Hyong Son, a vice department director, was arrested due to the debacle.
Ongoing Repairs and Future Implications
The ship was righted and moored at a pier, but its repair prospects remain uncertain. The sonar bow section requires extensive repairs. North Korean state media attributed the issues to inexperienced command and operational carelessness throughout construction and launch.
“criminal act caused by sheer callousness, irresponsibility, and unscientific empiricism, which should never occur and could not be tolerated.” – Jong Un.
The launch failure not only delays naval capabilities but also affects prospects for shipyard personnel and associated organizations. The extent of damage and successful salvage operations remain a subject of observation and concern.
