North Korea's attempt to launch its second 5,000-ton-class destroyer ended in failure at the northeastern port of Chongjin. The vessel lost balance during the launch, resulting in the stern submerging prematurely while the bow remained on the slipway. This mishap caused significant structural damage, including crushed sections of the hull and flooding in the stern.

Leader Kim Jong Un, who witnessed the event, condemned the incident as a "serious accident and criminal act" caused by "absolute carelessness, irresponsibility, and unscientific empiricism." He has ordered a full-scale investigation and the arrest of those responsible, including the manager of the Chongjin shipyard, Hong Kil Ho.

State media downplayed the damages, claiming only minor scratches and water ingress, with an estimated 10-day repair period. However, external analysts suggest the damage is extensive, potentially requiring over a year to fix.

The failed launch is a setback for North Korea's naval modernization efforts, following the successful launch of a similar warship, the Choe Hyon, just a month earlier. Analysts believe the incident may impact the country's defense technology development, especially if scientists are held politically accountable.