North Korea Arrests 3 Over Failed Ship Launch That Angered Kim Jong-un
New York TimesMAY 20
North Korea Launches Destroyer After Earlier Failed Attempt
Above: The damaged destroyer at Hambuk Shipyard one day after the failed launch. Image copyright: Satellite image/Contributor/Maxar Technologies via Getty Images
The Spin
Pro-North Korea narrative
North Korea demonstrated resilience and technical competence by successfully restoring the damaged destroyer through manual recovery operations. The swift response and commitment to complete repairs before the party meeting show the regime's determination to advance its naval modernization despite setbacks.
Anti-North Korea narrative
This incident highlights significant weaknesses in North Korea's military capabilities and shipbuilding expertise. The public failure undermines Kim's narrative of military strength and raises questions about the regime's ability to modernize its naval forces as quickly as promised. The harsh punishment of officials reveals an attempt to maintain face after an embarrassing setback.