Former North Korean Navy Commander Reappears in State Media After Controversial Incident

On June 29, 2025, North Korea's state broadcaster, 조선중앙TV (Korean Central Television), aired a documentary titled '위민헌신의 여정, 새로운 변혁의 2024년' (The Journey of Devotion to the People, A New Transformation in 2024), featuring former Navy Commander 김명식 (Kim Myung-sik) without any edits. This appearance comes after a significant incident on May 21, when a new 5,000-ton destroyer capsized during its launch ceremony attended by North Korean leader 김정은 (Kim Jong-un). Following the accident, which Kim described as an 'unacceptable serious incident,' there were immediate repercussions, including the summoning and punishment of those responsible.

Although no specific punishment for Kim Myung-sik was announced, it was confirmed that he was replaced by 박광섭 (Park Kwang-seop) as the Navy Commander, as evidenced by photos from a ceremony on June 13, where the previously capsized ship was relaunched. In subsequent reports, Kim Myung-sik's image was notably absent, leading to speculation about his status. Notably, a photo from a March inspection by Kim Jong-un was re-released, but Kim Myung-sik was meticulously removed from the image, a move reminiscent of past purges in North Korea.

The sudden reappearance of Kim Myung-sik in the documentary has led analysts to suggest that Kim Jong-un's anger may have subsided. Given that the content and format of broadcasts are closely monitored by the ruling Workers' Party's Propaganda and Agitation Department, it seems unlikely that his inclusion was an oversight. The documentary was rebroadcast over two days, making it improbable that the error went unnoticed.

Among those involved in the destroyer incident, 정경택 (Jung Kyung-taek) was demoted from general to major general, and 리형선 (Ri Hyung-sun) was detained, indicating that disciplinary actions have largely concluded. This shift may suggest a relaxation of previous measures, possibly aimed at boosting morale within the Navy, which has faced setbacks due to the incident. Kim Jong-un has previously shown a close relationship with Kim Myung-sik, even exchanging hats during a visit to a greenhouse farm in 2022, indicating a level of personal affection for him.