Overview
- North Korea says it fully restored and relaunched the 5,000-ton Kang Kon at the Rajin shipyard on June 12 in the presence of Kim Jong Un
- The destroyer capsized during its first launch on May 21, prompting Kim to blame “absolute carelessness” and sanction four officials over the mishap
- Outside experts question the ship’s readiness after weeks submerged, citing possible damage to electronics and structural systems
- Kim announced Central Military Commission approval to construct two additional Choe Hyon-class destroyers in 2026
- The expansion is part of Pyongyang’s wider military modernization, which it describes as necessary to deter escalating US-led security activities in the region