Pyongyang: North Korea stated that it has successfully launched a 5,000-ton destroyer after repair work, following its initial failed attempt in May. The launch ceremony, attended by leader Kim Jong-un, took place at the Rajin shipyard, where he also revealed plans to construct two more destroyers of the same class next year.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) announced that the destroyer is named Kang Kon, in honor of North Korea's first chief of the General Staff of the Korean People's Army, who was killed during the Korean War. Kim Jong-un expressed satisfaction with the restoration of the vessel, which was completed in about two weeks. He labeled the initial launch failure as an "intolerable" act that tarnished the country's reputation.

The destroyer had tipped over and partially submerged during its first launch in Chongjin in late May. Kim attributed the mishap to "absolute carelessness" and "irresponsibility," demanding the ship's repair before a key party meeting in June. He also shared the Central Military Commission's decision to build two additional 5,000-ton-class destroyers in the coming year.

Citing threats from the United States and other adversaries, Kim justified the expansion of North Korea's naval capabilities and warned of "corresponding" military responses to perceived provocations. The North Korean leader criticized the U.S. and its allies for escalating threats to the nation's security, while dismissing recent U.S. dialogue efforts.

Kim's remarks followed reports that U.S. President Donald Trump had attempted to send a letter to Kim through North Korean diplomats in New York, which was reportedly rejected. During his address, Kim also mentioned the death of a dockyard manager resulting from the initial launch incident, extending condolences and pledging to honor him as a patriotic figure.