North Korea commissions new destroyer Kang Kon amid regional naval drills
Kim Jong Un inaugurated the Kang Kon warship, saying it will bolster Pyongyang's naval deterrent, as the United States, South Korea and Japan begin a joint exercise in nearby waters.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un attended the commissioning of the destroyer Kang Kon at Wonsan Port on Sunday. He described the vessel as a symbol of the country's resolve to protect its interests at sea, adding that North Korea must act to safeguard its sovereignty in the waters east of the peninsula.
State media KCNA said the ship carries the same weapons systems as the 5,000-tonne Choe Hyon, a class of destroyers that can be equipped with missiles capable of delivering nuclear warheads, though specific armaments were not detailed. The Kang Kon, named after a Korean War commander, completed sea trials and weapons testing earlier this year after being repaired following a capsizing incident in May 2025.
The commissioning took place one day before the start of the Freedom Edge exercise, a five-day drill involving the United States, South Korea and Japan in the waters south of Jeju Island. South Korean officials described the exercise as defensive and aimed at responding to North Korean missile and nuclear threats while promoting regional stability.
Kim announced that another phase of naval expansion will be showcased in eight months, and noted ongoing construction of new naval bases on the east coast and the formation of additional warship classes.