DPRK launches full probe into destroyer launch accident

An investigation group from the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) began a "full-scale investigation" into the serious destroyer launch accident that occurred at the Chongjin Shipyard on Wednesday, the official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) said Friday.

The accident investigation group included a public prosecutors' office and relevant experts, the KCNA report said.

"Detailed underwater and internal inspection of the warship confirmed that, unlike the initial announcement, there were no holes made at the warship's bottom; the hull starboard was scratched and a certain amount of seawater flowed into the stern section through the rescue channel," the KCNA said, citing the investigation result.

Experts estimated that "it will take two or three days to keep the balance of the warship by pumping out the seawater from the flooded chamber and making the bow leave the slipway, and 10-odd days to restore the warship's side," according to the KCNA.