North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has vowed to strengthen the country’s military capabilities and achieve what he described as “absolute power” following a series of weapons tests involving the country’s newly repaired 5,000-tonne destroyer, Kang Kon.
According to North Korean state media, Kim personally observed Friday’s military exercises, which included cruise missile launches, naval weapons demonstrations and electronic warfare tests conducted off the country’s eastern coast.
Photographs released by the state-run media showed Kim smiling as he watched the drills from a coastal observation point alongside senior military officials.
The tests come less than two weeks after North Korea commissioned another 5,000-tonne destroyer, Choe Hyon, as Pyongyang continues efforts to modernise its naval forces.
Destroyer Returns After Launch Mishap
The Kang Kon attracted international attention last year after it partially capsized during its launch ceremony, an incident that unfolded in full view of Kim.
The North Korean leader publicly criticised officials at the time, describing the accident as the result of “carelessness” and “irresponsibility,” while ordering those responsible to be held accountable.
Following repairs, the vessel has now successfully completed a major round of sea trials and weapons testing.
After reviewing the exercises, Kim instructed military authorities to complete the remaining trial process and formally commission the destroyer into naval service within the next two months.
Naval Expansion Continues
During the inspection, Kim reiterated the need to strengthen North Korea’s military deterrence and said the country must continue developing advanced naval capabilities to safeguard its national security.
The latest tests included the launch of cruise missiles as well as demonstrations of other onboard weapons systems designed for modern naval warfare.
Military analysts believe the destroyer could officially enter service around September to coincide with celebrations marking North Korea’s national founding anniversary.
Once operational, the vessel is expected to serve primarily along the country’s eastern coastline while crews continue operational training.
Focus on Military Modernisation
The latest naval developments reflect North Korea’s ongoing efforts to expand its military capabilities despite continued international sanctions.
Pyongyang has increasingly focused on strengthening its navy alongside its missile and nuclear programmes, describing its military expansion as essential for national defence.
North Korea continues to identify itself as a permanent nuclear power following the collapse of denuclearisation negotiations with the United States several years ago.
Relations on the Korean Peninsula remain tense, with North and South Korea technically still at war since the 1950–53 conflict ended with an armistice rather than a formal peace treaty.
