NextFin news, SEOUL, Oct. 6 (Yonhap) — North Korean leader Kim Jong-un visited the nation's first 5,000-ton destroyer, the Choe Hyon, on Sunday, October 5, 2025, calling for a bolstered naval combat force to "thoroughly" deter and counter enemy provocations, state media reported Monday.
Kim's visit to the destroyer was accompanied by key party and government officials and took place during a military hardware exhibition, according to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).
The Choe Hyon destroyer, unveiled in April 2025, is part of North Korea's efforts to enhance its naval power. It is equipped with supersonic strategic cruise missiles, tactical ballistic missiles, and other strike capabilities.
During the visit, Kim emphasized that the navy's "tremendous ability" should be exercised in the vast ocean to defend the nation's sovereignty and security interests by deterring or punishing enemy provocations.
He also stated that the ruling Workers' Party would continue its efforts without pause to expand and grow the naval combat force, which is considered central to defending national rights.
In addition to the Choe Hyon, North Korea launched another destroyer of the same class, the Kang Kon, in June 2025 after repairs following damage sustained during its initial launch attempt in May.
North Korea plans to build another 5,000-ton destroyer by October 2026 as part of its naval strengthening strategy.
Kim's call for naval enhancement comes amid ongoing geopolitical tensions in the region, with North Korea facing international scrutiny over its military developments, including missile tests and naval expansion.
The visit and statements were reported by KCNA on Monday, October 6, 2025, reflecting Pyongyang's continued focus on military modernization and maritime defense capabilities.
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