North Korea Unveils New Warship as Kim Jong Un Touts Military Might
North Korea has launched a newly developed warship it describes as a state-of-the-art destroyer, with leader Kim Jong Un personally attending the unveiling ceremony, according to state-run media on Saturday.
This development follows recent demonstrations of military advancements, including suicide and surveillance drones powered by artificial intelligence—deepening international concerns over Pyongyang’s growing defense ties with Moscow.
Named “Choe Hyon” in honor of a historic anti-Japanese figure, the 5,000-ton destroyer reportedly took over a year to construct, as detailed by the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA). Analysts suggest the vessel’s size indicates its capability to host a mix of ship-to-air and ship-to-surface missiles, with speculation that it may be equipped to carry short-range tactical nuclear weapons.
Kim described the ship as a symbol of the navy’s emerging role in national defense and nuclear deterrence. He emphasized that the destroyer would be operational by early next year. He also criticized the United States, accusing it of escalating tensions through joint military drills with South Korea that he claimed simulate nuclear attacks on the North.
The launch ceremony took place at Nampho Dockyard on the country’s western coast. KCNA reported that the ship was the first to be reviewed by Kim during the event.
State-released photos showed Kim, accompanied by his daughter Ju Ae, inspecting the vessel. The two were seen engaging in conversation as they were welcomed by uniformed naval personnel amidst a celebratory scene with confetti.
Ju Ae’s presence continues to draw attention, with many analysts viewing her as a possible heir to North Korea’s leadership.
In March, Kim oversaw progress on the country’s nuclear-powered submarine project and reaffirmed his intent to significantly enhance naval capabilities as a core defense strategy. He has called for the modernization of both surface and underwater forces, including the construction of advanced warships.
In response to rising threats, the U.S.—a key ally of South Korea—has increased the frequency and scale of joint exercises, deploying strategic assets such as aircraft carriers and nuclear submarines to the region.
Pyongyang maintains its stance as an “irreversible” nuclear state and regularly denounces U.S.-South Korea military cooperation as preparation for an invasion.
Meanwhile, former U.S. President Donald Trump—who held three meetings with Kim during his term—recently claimed he’s still in contact with the North Korean leader and may engage with him again in the future, according to South Korea’s Yonhap News Agency.
Commenting on the timing of the destroyer’s debut, Yang Moo-jin, president of the University of North Korean Studies, noted that it signals Kim’s unwillingness to denuclearize while possibly setting conditions for future diplomatic talks with Washington.
