North Korean state media reported that four officials were arrested after a recent failed launch of a naval destroyer. Leader Kim Jong Un said the failure was due to their serious negligence.

North Korea doesn't often punish officials in public very harshly for failed weapons tests or military shows. The arrests of four officials this weekend show how serious Kim is about making his military stronger and improving discipline in the country.

A 5,000-ton destroyer was damaged on Wednesday during a launch ceremony at the port of Chongjin. Kim was present when a support structure at the back of the ship came loose, causing the damage. Satellite photos showed the ship lying on its side, partly underwater, and covered with blue material.

Kim was very angry about the incident because the warship, which is the country's second destroyer, is very important for his plan to make the navy more modern. He quickly blamed military leaders, scientists, and people who work at the shipyard, saying their actions were a "criminal act" caused by extreme carelessness and not using a scientific method.

On Monday, North Korea's official news agency announced the arrest of Ri Hyong Son, a high-ranking official in the Workers' Party. He was believed to be largely responsible for the failed rocket launch.

KCNA reported on Sunday that three officials from Chongjin Shipyard were arrested because of the incident. They were the chief engineer, the head of the hull construction department, and the deputy manager for administration.

Hong Kil Ho, who manages the shipyard, was also asked to come in for questioning, according to an earlier report from KCNA.

On Thursday, North Korea's Central Military Commission told investigators that the people responsible "cannot avoid punishment for the crime." However, it is still not clear what will happen to the officials who were arrested.

When Kim first became leader, he was known for ordering many executions and removing important officials, including his powerful uncle. However, experts say he did this mainly to strengthen his control and get rid of anyone who might threaten his position. Recently, there have been fewer reports of executions or removals in North Korea, which suggests Kim has gained complete power, just like his father and grandfather.

Kim has reportedly given special treatment to scientists and engineers who work on developing weapons, as he has been trying hard to increase his nuclear and missile supplies. 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, according to state media. He reportedly said, "failure is always a necessary step for success."

Experts believe Kim wants to make significant progress on his five-year plan to develop weapons, which he announced at a political meeting in early 2021. Kim has said that North Korea needs a stronger navy, missiles that can carry nuclear weapons, and other advanced weapons to deal with what he calls growing security threats from the U.S. and its allies.

Last month, North Korea launched its first destroyer, a large 5,000-ton ship, with a big celebration. This ship is North Korea's biggest and most modern warship. State media said it can carry different weapons, like nuclear missiles. Kim Jong-un said building it was a big step forward for North Korea's navy.

North Korea said the second destroyer was not badly damaged. They stated that the right side of the ship's body was only scratched, and a small amount of water went into the back part.

North Korea announced on Friday that they would need about 10 days to finish repairs, but many international observers thought the country probably didn't fully report how bad the damage was.