A shocking mishap during a North Korean warship launch has triggered a brutal crackdown ordered by Supreme Leader Kim Jong Un. The warship, weighing approximately 5,000 tons, capsized during its ceremonial launch — an event attended by Kim himself. The embarrassment has been labeled an “unforgivable crime” by the regime.

According to reports, four senior officials have been arrested, and North Korean leadership is reportedly preparing to publicly execute some of them as punishment for what Kim views as a national humiliation.

Who Has Been Arrested?

The arrested include:

• Kang Jong Chol – Chief Engineer

• Han Kyong Hak – Head of the Hull Workshop

• Kim Yong Hak – Deputy Manager

• Unnamed fourth official – Identity yet to be revealed

All were taken into custody from a shipyard in Chongjin, a city in the northern region of the country.

Possible Public Executions

North Korea Leadership Watch founder Michael Madden told The Sun that some of the accused may be executed publicly to set an example. The regime’s philosophy of “kill the chicken to scare the monkey” is often used to justify extreme, visible punishments.

Other Punishments Also Likely

Officials may also face:

• Salary reductions

• Suspensions or permanent dismissals

• Loss of party membership

• Lengthy prison terms

But given the incident's high-profile nature and the damage to Kim’s personal prestige, executions — potentially even in a public setting — are reportedly being considered.

A Pattern of Ruthlessness

The regime has a history of punishing perceived failures or disrespect with extreme measures. Previous reports claim that:

• An official who dozed off during a Kim speech was executed using an anti-aircraft gun.

• Citizens caught watching South Korean dramas have been jailed or executed.

• Attempting to flee the country or violating party doctrine has led to similar fates.

This latest crackdown underscores the regime’s obsession with control and image — and how costly even minor failures can be in Kim’s North Korea.