The South Korean intelligence agency, NIS, has identified Kim Jong Un’s young daughter, Kim Ju Ae, who has been present at missile tests and military parades, as the “most likely” successor for the first time. While acknowledging her as a potential heir, the NIS emphasised that they were still exploring various possibilities in Pyongyang’s succession plan. Kim Ju Ae has maintained a prominent presence since her initial public appearance in late 2022.
The NIS stated that their analysis, considering Kim Ju Ae’s public engagements and the respect she receives, points to her as the current primary successor. However, they remain vigilant to all possibilities, citing Kim Jong Un’s youth, good health, and various unpredictable factors. Miss Kim is estimated to be around 10 years old.
Unification Minister Kim Yung-ho echoed a comparable evaluation of Kim Jong Un’s daughter during a recent press conference, suggesting that the persistent focus on her indicates North Korea’s accelerated effort to convey succession plans amid challenging internal situations. Observers of North Korea have pointed out the shift in referring to Miss Kim as a “respected” daughter, a departure from the initial introduction in November 2022 when she was described as “beloved.”
The designation “respected” in North Korea is typically reserved for revered figures, and in Kim Jong Un’s case, it was used only after solidifying his position as the future leader. North Korean citizens are taught about the sacred bloodline of the Kims, emphasizing their exclusive right to lead the country. Mr Kim is likely keen on passing the leadership to the fourth generation. Miss Kim, his daughter, has been present at significant events, including the December launch of the Hwasong-18 solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missile, the most advanced in North Korea’s arsenal. She also accompanied him during the successful launch of the Malligyong-1 spy satellite in November, which Pyongyang claimed would provide Mr Kim with a view of the White House.
Introducing Miss Kim early to the public might serve as Kim Jong Un’s strategy to ensure her establishment before assuming power, according to analysts. It could also be a means for Kim to challenge gender biases in deeply patriarchal North Korea, where female leadership is unprecedented. The first mention of Miss Kim dates back to 2013, when retired basketball star Dennis Rodman, after a controversial trip to North Korea, revealed spending time with Kim’s family and holding their baby. Kim Jong Un maintains a high level of secrecy around his family, with even his wife, Ri Sol Ju, remaining undisclosed for some time after their marriage.
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