North Korea naval disaster: Officials detained after destroyer mishap
The Deputy Director of the Armament Industry Department of the Central Committee of the Workers' Party of Korea, Ri Hyong-son, recognized as "largely responsible for the serious accident," has been arrested, according to Pyongyang media. He is the fourth person arrested in connection with the failed launch of the destroyer.
The official KCNA news agency reported that Ri was detained on Sunday.
Previously, the main engineer of the shipyard, the head of the hull construction department, and the deputy director for administrative matters were also detained for "criminal negligence."
All are reportedly responsible for the failed launch on May 21 of the new 5,000-ton destroyer, which—as North Korean leader Kim Jong Un announced—is to be equipped with the most advanced and powerful weaponry, including nuclear arms.
Kim, who was present at the failed launch, flew into a rage and blamed representatives of the military, scientists, and shipyard workers for what he called a "criminal act caused by absolute carelessness, irresponsibility and unscientific empiricism."
The events took place at the Chongjin port. The accident occurred due to a loss of balance during the ship's launch, resulting in damage to the lower part of the destroyer's hull. It was reported that some bottom sections of the ship were crushed, which disturbed the ship's balance. Kim Jong Un deemed the accident a blow to the "dignity and self respect of the country."
Separately, KCNA reported on Monday that "the work for completely restoring the balance of the warship is being actively conducted under the technical guidance of an expert group according to its schedule." Contrary to initial reports of holes in the hull, state media said inspections did not find such damage.
Accident a result of haste?
In April, North Korea ceremoniously launched its first similar destroyer. As highlighted by the Associated Press, Kim places great importance on expanding his naval fleet, which is meant to counter— as he puts it—"the military threat from the US." The failed ship launch was a significant image blow for him.
Experts believe that the accident may be a result of haste. At the end of April, the destroyer "Choe Hyon" was launched at the Nampho port, which, according to state media reports, was built in 400 days.
