Seoul:

North Korea has arrested a shipyard official following a significant mishap during the launch of a new warship, according to state media reports on Sunday.

The unsuccessful launch, which severely damaged a 5,000-ton vessel, was observed by the country’s leader, Kim Jong-un, who expressed that the incident could undermine the nation’s dignity and indicated that those responsible would face consequences.

This disaster likely played out in front of a substantial audience at a port in northeastern Jeongjin, which, experts suggest, heightened Kim’s embarrassment as he aimed to showcase military strength.

As the investigation deepens, authorities have detained the chief engineer at the Chongjin Shipyard, as noted by the provincial news agency KCNA.

Satellite images reportedly show the warship, draped with a blue tarpaulin, tipped onto its side, with the bow protruding into the harbor, as per the US-based Center for Strategic International Research (CSIS).

Kim has instructed that the ship be repaired before a ruling party meeting in June, and KCNA has mentioned that the restoration efforts are underway.

In a separate update regarding regional tensions, North Korean armed forces have stated they will effectively manage and counteract any military threats posed by adversary nations, as reported by the KCNA, referencing the Ministry of Defense’s policy director.