A new North Korean warship lay on the side of the water after a failed launch in front of Kim Jong-un.
Kim Jong Il, who witnessed the failed launch of the 5,000-ton destroyer, declared the incident a “criminal act caused by absolute carelessness” and warned it “untolerable”.
South Korea's Central News Agency (KCNA) said the accident at Jong-jin's eastern port was caused by the loss of balance during launch.
KCNA added that it left “some parts of the bottom of the warship were crushed” and the bow could not exit the ship.
South Korean troops said the suffered warship lies in the water after the failed launch.
The report did not mention whether there were any casualties.
King said the accident “crashed our nation’s dignity and self-esteem” and vowed to be responsible for “irresponsible mistakes.”
The North Korean leader said they will handle it at a plenary meeting of the Party Central Committee, which will be convened next month. He ordered the completion of repairs to the warship by June.
The rare accident was publicly disclosed after Pyongyang launched another 5,000 destroyer-class ship called Choe Hyon last month.
King and his daughter stood on the bow and arrow of destroyer Choe Hyon last month – AFP
At the time, state media was participating in Kim's image with his daughter Ju Ae, which many experts considered to be his successor.
North Korea claims the ship is equipped with “the most powerful weapon” and will “begin operation early next year.”
Some analysts say the ship can be equipped with short-range tactical nuclear missiles.
In a report last week on preparations for launching the accident ship, US analytics website 38 North said the ship appeared to be detached from the dock, which is Quay, a method not previously observed in North Korea.
“Using this launch method may be necessary because the dock where the ship is constructed has no inclination,” North reported.
The day before launch, commercial satellite images from the shipyard showed that the destroyer was placed next to the dock with a support ship.
Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive apps, currency savings and more, free 1 month of telegram.
