NKorea leader visits unit known for anti-US feats

Published April 6, 2012 5:36AM (EDT)

PYONGYANG, North Korea (AP) — North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has visited a naval unit credited with anti-U.S. feats.

The visit comes as North Korea prepares to launch a long-range rocket later this month despite U.S. warnings. Pyongyang says it is seeking to put a scientific satellite in orbit. Washington says the launch is a test of ballistic missile technology.

The North's official media said Friday that the unit visited by leader Kim Jong Un sank the USS Baltimore during the 1950s Korean War. Outside military historians dispute that claim.

The official media also credited the unit with capturing the USS Pueblo in 1968. That ship was seized while on a spying mission off the North's coast. It is still displayed in Pyongyang.

THIS IS A BREAKING NEWS UPDATE. Check back soon for further information. AP's earlier story is below.

PYONGYANG, North Korea (AP) — North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has visited a naval base credited with anti-U.S. feats.

The visit comes as North Korea prepares to launch a long-range rocket later this month despite U.S. warnings. Pyongyang says it is seeking to put a scientific satellite in orbit. Washington says the launch is a test of ballistic missile technology.

The North's official media said Friday that the unit visited by leader Kim Jong Un sank the USS Baltimore during the Korean War. Outside military historians dispute that claim.

The official media also credited the unit with capturing the USS Pueblo in 1968. That ship was seized while on a spying mission off the North's coast. It is still displayed in Pyongyang.


By Salon Staff

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