North Korea commissions new Kang Kon destroyer in Wonsan

North Korea held a commissioning ceremony for its new destroyer, Kang Kon, in the eastern port city of Wonsan on September 6, with leader Kim Jong Un attending.

Jo Chun Ryong, a member of the Political Bureau and secretary of the Workers' Party of Korea Central Committee, said the warship had undergone multiple assessments and tests ahead of its commissioning, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media. 

"The destroyer's combat efficiency and reliability have been comprehensively verified through multiple-stage professional assessments and tests," he said.

In a speech at the ceremony, Kim Jong Un said the destroyer represented North Korea's efforts to strengthen its military capabilities.

"The destroyer Kang Kon is an outcome of the DPRK's self-respect, will and strong spirit to defend its rights and interests."

Kim also described the vessel as a comprehensive demonstration of North Korea's economic, defence, scientific and technological capabilities.

The destroyer's combat systems were tested in July, including the launch of strategic cruise missiles and trials of deck guns, automatic cannons and electronic warfare systems.

The vessel's commissioning follows an accident during its ceremonial launch in 2025, when the ship capsized and listed to one side. Kim Jong Un described the incident at the time as the result of "criminal negligence."

By Sabina Mammadli