Pyongyang: North Korea has announced plans to build a third 5,000-ton destroyer for its navy by October next year. The announcement comes following recent developments in North Korea's naval capabilities.

According to Deutsche Welle, the announcement on Tuesday follows the launch of North Korea's first 5,000-ton destroyer-class naval ship, the Choe Hyon, which took place in April. The second ship, the Kang Kon, faced setbacks when it capsized at its launch ceremony in May but was repaired and set afloat the following month.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un emphasized the importance of expanding naval power in June, stating, "We must develop our naval power more comprehensively and rapidly so that the enemy cannot even think of carrying out aggressive actions in the waters around us."

The announcement coincides with South Korea's political shift as new President Lee Jae Myung adopts a more conciliatory approach towards North Korea compared to his impeached predecessor, Yoon Suk Yeol.