SEOUL — North Korea has launched a full investigation into the recent warship launch mishap, where a 5,000-ton destroyer lost balance and partially capsized during launch, damaging its starboard hull. State media KCNA reported no serious damage or casualties but said seawater flooded the stern through the rescue channel.

Leader Kim Jong Un condemned the incident as a “criminal act,” highlighting public embarrassment as the accident happened before a large crowd. Experts noted the Chongjin shipyard’s lack of experience with large warships may have contributed.

Recovery is expected to take around 10 days. Authorities have begun detaining and investigating those responsible, aiming to tackle “irresponsibility” and “incautiousness.”