North Korean authorities have reportedly arrested four officials after the recent failed launch of a naval destroyer. State media reported that leader Kim Jong Un stated the incident was due to criminal negligence.

North Korea doesn't usually punish officials publicly for failed weapons tests or military events. The recent arrests of four officials show how serious Kim Jong-un is about his military plans and making sure people follow rules at home.

A 5,000-ton destroyer was damaged on Wednesday during a launch ceremony at the northeastern port of Chongjin. Kim was present when a transport cradle at the ship's back detached too early. Satellite images of the site showed the ship lying on its side, partly underwater, and covered with blue tarpaulins.

The incident greatly angered Kim because the warship, which is the country's second known destroyer, is very important for his plan to update the navy. Kim quickly blamed military officials, scientists, and shipyard operators, calling it a "criminal act caused by extreme carelessness, irresponsibility, and unscientific methods."

The official Korean Central News Agency reported on Monday that law enforcement arrested Ri Hyong Son, who is the deputy director of the munitions industry department in the ruling Workers' Party's Central Committee. He apparently admitted he was largely responsible for the failed launch.

KCNA reported on Sunday that three officials from Chongjin Shipyard were arrested by the authorities due to the incident. These officials included the chief engineer, the head of the hull construction workshop, and the deputy manager for administrative affairs.

The KCNA had previously reported that Hong Kil Ho, the shipyard manager, was also called in for questioning.

In a directive given to investigators on Thursday, North Korea's powerful Central Military Commission stated that those responsible "can never escape their responsibility for the crime." However, the punishment for the arrested officials is still unknown.

When Kim first started ruling, he became known for ordering many executions and removals of important officials, even killing his powerful uncle. However, experts think these actions were mainly to make his control stronger and get rid of any possible dangers to his leadership. Recently, there have been fewer stories about executions or removals in North Korea, as Kim has gained total power, just like his father and grandfather had before him.

Kim has reportedly given special treatment to scientists and engineers who work in the weapons development industry, as he has been trying hard to increase his nuclear and missile weapons. He has given them new apartments in Pyongyang. Also, after a military spy satellite launch failed last year, he sent a supportive message to his scientists about the problem, saying that "a failure is always necessary for success," according to state media.

Experts believe Kim Jong-un is keen to make significant progress on his five-year arms development plan, which was established at a ruling party meeting in early 2021. He has stated that North Korea needs stronger naval forces, nuclear-capable missiles, and other advanced weapons to deal with what he sees as increasing security threats led by the U.S.

Last month, North Korea launched its first destroyer, a 5,000-ton ship, with a lot of celebration. State media reported that this ship is North Korea's biggest and most advanced warship, designed to carry different weapons, including nuclear missiles. Kim Jong-un called its creation "a breakthrough" for modernizing North Korea's navy.

North Korea denied that the second destroyer was badly damaged. They stated that the hull on the right side was only slightly scratched and that a small amount of seawater entered the back part of the ship.

On Friday, North Korea stated that around ten days would be necessary for repairs, but many outside observers believed the country probably downplayed the extent of the damage.