North Korean Leader Supervises Missile Tests from Destroyer

SEOUL, South Korea -- North Korean leader Kim Jong Un supervised missile tests from the destroyer Choe Hyon over the weekend, state media reported on Tuesday. The tests occurred on Sunday and involved two strategic cruise missiles and three anti-ship missiles launched from the 5,000-ton-class warship. The Choe Hyon was first unveiled in April 2025.

State newspaper Rodong Sinmun stated that the cruise missiles flew for more than two hours and the anti-ship missiles for more than 30 minutes along pre-set trajectories over North Korea's western seas. The missiles accurately struck their targets, according to the report.

The Korean Central News Agency published photos of Kim and senior officials observing the launches from a pier as a projectile trailed smoke from the warship.

Kim previously supervised two rounds of missile tests from the Choe Hyon last month, state media reported. During those tests, he vowed to accelerate the nuclear armament of the navy.

Rodong Sinmun reported that Kim reviewed plans for weapons systems on a third and fourth destroyer currently under construction. The Choe Hyon is designed to carry anti-air and anti-ship weapons, as well as ballistic and cruise missiles capable of nuclear armament, according to state media.

Kim has described the development of the Choe Hyon as a step to expand the military's operational reach and preemptive strike capabilities.

South Korean officials stated that the Choe Hyon was likely built with Russian assistance amid deepening military ties between North Korea and Russia. Some experts have questioned whether the vessel is ready for active service. North Korea unveiled a second destroyer of the same class, named Kang Kon, in May of the previous year.

Kim responded to the incident, and the ship was relaunched in June after repairs.

A third destroyer is under construction at the Nampo shipyard on North Korea's western coast, state media said. The vessel is expected to be completed by October, coinciding with the founding anniversary of the ruling Workers’ Party. These developments occur as North Korea expands its naval capabilities.

The latest tests from the Choe Hyon follow a series of weapons tests last week, which involved ballistic missiles with cluster-bomb warheads, according to state media. North Korean officials issued statements regarding relations with South Korea during that period. North Korea has suspended dialogue with the United States and South Korea since 2019.

S. offers to resume talks, state media reported. He urged the United States to drop demands for denuclearization as a precondition for discussions. North Korea has deepened ties with Russia, including sending troops and weapons to support Russia's actions in Ukraine.

North Korea has also strengthened relations with China, its traditional ally. During a meeting last week with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, North Korean officials expressed support for China's positions on international affairs. These foreign policy efforts form part of North Korea's broader military and diplomatic activities.