North Korean authorities have detained shipyard personnel following a failed warship launch that resulted in damage to a 5,000-ton naval vessel, state media reports indicate.

The Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported on Sunday that the chief engineer of the Chongjin Shipyard, among others, was taken into custody by law enforcement.

Supreme Leader Kim Jong-un reportedly expressed dismay upon witnessing the unsuccessful launch, which damaged the warship. He reportedly stated that the incident harmed the nation’s image and vowed to hold those responsible accountable.

The incident occurred on Wednesday at the northeastern port of Chongjin, potentially in view of a large audience, thereby amplifying the public embarrassment as Kim sought to showcase the country’s military prowess.

Kim Jong-un has reportedly attributed the mishap to “a serious accident and criminal act caused by absolute carelessness, irresponsibility and unscientific empiricism,” blaming military officials, scientists, and shipyard workers.

Satellite images depict the warship covered with blue tarpaulins, listing to one side with its stern extending into the harbor. The bow remained on the launch slipway.

A malfunction involving the flatcar that was meant to guide the ship during launch caused it to become unbalanced, resulting in damage to its underside before the stern slid into the water.

Kim Jong-un has mandated that the ship be repaired before a ruling party meeting scheduled for June.

KCNA reported that the restoration plan is progressing.

According to KCNA, citing a defense ministry policy chief, North Korea’s military “will thoroughly contain and control all sorts of military threats from the enemy countries,” amid U.S. military buildup.

Under Kim Jong-un’s leadership, North Korea has prioritized the development of a military arsenal, which it views as a response to perceived Western aggression.

Reuters contributed to this report.

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