Last month, North Korea's new military ship capsized as it was being launched into the water. This incident caught not only the attention of the ship but the entire world's media. Interestingly, no one was killed, and the damage was not significant.
So why was this event so significant?
It's not about the ship, but Kim Jong Un's reaction to it.
He called it a "crime." According to him, this incident "sullied the country's dignity." Immediately, responsible parties were punished – four party officials were detained. Kim then ordered the ship to be repaired immediately. And, surprisingly, within three weeks, the ship was launched again.
This tells us a lot about the North Korean regime.
Military power – Kim Jong Un's obsession
Despite possessing nuclear weapons, its navy is significantly weak. Its neighbors – South Korea, Japan, and the USA – have the strongest fleets. Kim Jong Un wants to change this. He planned to build a nuclear-armed ship. The capsized ship was a key step in this plan. The first ship was launched in April. This was the second.
This ship, weighing 5000 tons, is the largest military ship in North Korea's history and theoretically capable of launching nuclear missiles.
The capsizing – a major embarrassment
According to Choi Il, a captain of the South Korean navy, such a mistake in shipbuilding is very rare. This incident exposed the weakness of North Korea's shipbuilding technology. Worst of all, this ship capsized and sank in front of Kim Jong Un himself.
North Korea “always tries to show its strength.” Thus, Kim's rage was justified.
Now mistakes are not hidden
Previously, North Korea used to hide bad news. But this is changing. Because people have learned how to access information. Now, instead of hiding the mistake, the regime announces it, punishes the responsible, and creates an impression that “the leadership is working.”
This strategy seems to be working. The ship was repaired in three weeks. Through this, the regime presented itself as working hard, a responsible leadership.
The death of a simple worker – a symbol of loyalty
Kim mentioned a worker who died during the construction of the ship, calling him a "sacrificial hero." In other words, instead of blaming himself for the mistake, he showcased a loyal worker, giving a lesson of loyalty to the people. This too is a form of propaganda.
Not a step back, but moving forward
Kim Jong Un does not back down from his goal. Military power – especially a nuclear navy – is his greatest strategic goal. He proved that, when the time comes, he will achieve it.
As laughable as their ship capsizing might seem to others, their determination is serious. We need to be vigilant,” say the experts.
