Kim Jong Un Reaffirms Commitment to Expanding North Korea’s Naval Destroyers
In a significant move showcasing its naval ambitions, North Korea recently succeeded in launching its 5,000-ton destroyer, named Kang Kon, after an earlier mishap that left the vessel capsized. This development was reported by state media, underscoring a concerted effort by the regime to modernize its naval capabilities amid ongoing regional tensions.
During the launch event held at the Rajin Shipyard, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un reaffirmed his commitment to enhancing the country’s naval power. He declared plans to construct two destroyers annually as part of a larger strategy to deter potential aggressors. Ultimately, the regime aims to unveil the third and fourth ships of the Choe Hyon class by 2026.
Why It Matters
North Korea’s strategic intent is becoming increasingly clear. Beyond its existing nuclear arsenal, the country is actively engaged in modernizing its naval fleet to counter perceived threats from the United States and its allies. This effort is illustrated by the recent unveiling of its first 5,000-ton destroyer in April and the launch of a missile-armed submarine in September 2023.
The initial launch of the Kang Kon had faced setbacks; the destroyer partially capsized at the water’s edge, an event witnessed by Kim himself, who lashed out, deeming the incident a “criminal act.” Satellite imagery later confirmed that the damaged ship was moved into a dry dock for repairs, emphasizing the challenges North Korea faces in its naval aspirations.
What To Know
As reported by the state-run Korean Central News Agency, the Kang Kon was successfully launched on June 12, 2025, marking a milestone for the North Korean military. The warship is named after North Korea’s first chief of General Staff, who met his demise during the Korean War. The ceremony was again graced by Kim, as he continues to spearhead these military initiatives.
This photo provided by the North Korean government shows a destroyer named Kang Kon during its launch ceremony at the Rajin shipyard in North Korea on June 12, 2025.
Korean Central News Agency/Korea News Service via AP
Imagery of the Kang Kon revealed that it bears the hull number 52 and was docked in a dry dock situated at the northeastern coast of North Korea, near the Russian border. Reports suggest that this facility is capable of conducting “modest repairs and maintenance” on naval vessels.
In his remarks during the launch ceremony, Kim emphasized that the nation’s efforts towards establishing a robust naval fleet are on a promising trajectory. He mentioned that “huge warship-building plans” are unfolding at a rapid pace, with the long-term goal of establishing a “world-level” naval combat force.
As stated by Jo Chun Ryong, secretary of the Central Committee of the Workers’ Party of Korea, the Kang Kon is designed for “comprehensive combat capability” and intends to operate freely in the East Sea and the Pacific Ocean — reflecting North Korea’s aspirations for greater naval mobility and operational reach.
Notably, the Kang Kon’s launch comes shortly after the South Korean military expressed skepticism about North Korea’s naval achievements following the earlier incident. South Korea operates a significantly larger navy, boasting a fleet of 12 destroyers, while U.S. naval assets continue to be stationed in the region, including aircraft carriers and nuclear submarines.
In this photo provided by the North Korean government, its leader Kim Jong Un, center, and his daughter, left, attend a launch ceremony of a destroyer named Kang Kon at the Rajin shipyard in North Korea on June 12, 2025.
Korean Central News Agency/Korea News Service via AP
What People Are Saying
Following the launch, Kim shared his views, stating that the previous mishap had temporarily tarnished the nation’s reputation. He attributed the incident to “absolute irresponsibility and unscientific empiricism,” yet maintained that no setback could impede the crucial moment of boosting the country’s naval capabilities.
In a response from the South Korean military, a spokesperson conveyed that, while the Kang Kon may appear restored, U.S. and South Korean intelligence agencies would continue monitoring to verify the vessel’s operational reliability.
What Happens Next
It remains unknown when the Kang Kon will conduct its anticipated weapons tests post-launch. However, the lead ship of its class, the Choe Hyon, has a history of missile and artillery exercises, raising questions about the kind of capabilities the new destroyer might bring to North Korea’s increasingly diverse military portfolio.
