North Korea has detained officials concerning the damage to a newly constructed 5,000-ton-class destroyer.
The ruling party’s official newspaper, Rodong Sinmun, reported on Sunday that the investigation into the launch incident at the Chongjin Shipyard is ongoing and intensifying.
According to the report, North Korean legal authorities have arrested chief engineer Kang Jong Chol, head of the hull construction workshop Han Kyong Hak, and deputy manager for administrative affairs Kim Yong Hak.
The accident investigation team reported to the Central Military Commission that no additional damage to the vessel had been identified as of May 24. The local recovery team is proceeding with the restoration plan as scheduled.
The newspaper previously reported that on May 22, legal authorities began procedures to detain those responsible for the accident. Hong Kil Ho, the shipyard manager, was the first to be summoned for questioning. It appears that follow-up procedures are now underway.
The incident occurred on May 21 during a launch ceremony for the 5,000-ton-class destroyer at the Chongjin Shipyard on the east coast. The vessel capsized and sustained damage while Kim Jong Un observed the proceedings.
In response, the North Korean leader strongly condemned the incident as a severe and unacceptable major accident, calling it a criminal act. He emphasized the need for a thorough investigation and accountability for those responsible. Kim Jong Un also ordered the damaged destroyer to be fully restored before the upcoming party plenary meeting scheduled for the end of June.