The state media said on Sunday that North Korea officials detained three shipyard officials after a recent unsuccessful launch of a naval destroyer, an incident that leader Kim Jong Un said that due to criminal negligence, the state’s media said. The 5,000-ton-class destroyer was damaged on Wednesday when a transport craddle on the ship’s stern was quickly separated during a launch ceremony, which was attended by Kim in the Northeast port of Chongjin. Satellite imagery on the site showed the vessel lying on its side and draped into a blue cover, sinking parts of the ship. The vessel is the second known destroyer of North Korea. The failed launch was later an embarrassment for Kim, which we are eager to build more naval forces to deal with military -led threats. North Korea launched its first destroyer with great pomp last month. The ship is designed to carry various weapons, including nuclear missiles and is the same class as a damaged warship. The official Korean Central News Agency said the law enforcement officers detained the Deputy Manager for the Chief Engineer, the head of the plow construction workshop and the Deputy Manager for Administrative Affairs at the Chongjin Shipyard, who said that they were responsible for Wednesday’s unsuccessful launch. Shipyard Manager, Hong Kill Ho was also called for questioning, KCNA had earlier reported. Kim blamed military officers, scientists and shipyard operators, which he said “due to complete negligence, irresponsible and unscientific empiricism.” In a directive to investigators on Thursday, North Korea’s powerful Central Mylery Commission resonated Kim’s position, saying “he could never take out his responsibility for the crime.” North Korea refused a warup, stating that the hull was scratched towards the starboard and some sea water was swept away in the stern section. North Korea said that about 10 days are needed to repair on Friday, but many external observers said the country is likely to understand the loss.
