North Korea began a thorough investigation of the accident that occurred this week during the launch a warship, according to KCNA.

Pyongyang said that the incident occurred on Wednesday due to a loss in balance when the vessel was launched. Sections of the bottom were crushed.

The report stated that an internal inspection revealed no holes in the warship’s bottom. However, the starboard hull had been scratched, and seawater was flowing into the stern through the rescue channel.

The report stated that the extent of damage caused was "not severe." It also said the investigation group had been ordered to determine the cause of accident and the responsible parties. The report didn't mention any injuries or fatalities as a result.

According to state media, Kim Jong Un, the leader of the isolated state, watched the launch of the 5,000-ton ship at Chongjin Shipyard in the northeastern region of North Korea on Wednesday. He branded it a "criminal action" that couldn't be tolerated.

Military analysts believe that the mishap occurred in front a large audience, which would have increased Kim's humiliation.

The South Korean military confirmed on Thursday that the ship had been lying on its side.

The KCNA reported, citing estimates from experts, that it would take between two and three days to restore balance to the warship after pumping seawater out of the flooded chamber, and about 10 days to restore its side.

According to KCNA, treating the accident as a grave matter was part of a fight against "incautiousness", and "irresponsibility".

The report stated that Hong Kil Ho, manager of Chongjin Shipyard, was summoned by the law enforcement organ to begin measures to investigate and detain those responsible for this accident. Reporting by Hyunsu YIM; Editing by Chris Reese & Jamie Freed

(source: Reuters)