North Korea detains three over warship launch accident, state media reports

North Korea detained three shipyard officials after a launch accident damaged a new 5,000‑tonne warship in Chongjin. Kim Jong‑un called it a “criminal act caused by absolute carelessness” and vowed to punish those responsible. The ship’s bottom sections were crushed, but KCNA later downplayed the damage. Satellite images show the ship listing in the harbor. South Korea suspects Russian involvement in its construction, similar to the Choe Hyon warship launched last month, The Guardian has reported. Kim ordered repairs ahead of a party meeting in June.