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