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North Korean leader names daughter as successor
South Korea's National Intelligence Service (NIS) informed lawmakers on Thursday that Kim Jong Un has chosen his 13-year-old daughter, Kim Ju Ae, as his heir, citing her growing public role in state events.
Rising prominence in state affairs
Ju Ae has appeared alongside her father at high-profile events in recent months, including a September visit to Beijing-the first known trip abroad for the teenager. The NIS assessed her succession status based on her increased visibility and involvement in official functions.
Lawmaker Lee Seong-kwen told reporters that Ju Ae's activities, such as attending the founding anniversary of the Korean People's Army and visiting the Kumsusan Palace of the Sun, signal her transition from "training" to formal designation as successor. The NIS also noted signs of her influencing state policies.
Symbolism and precedent in North Korea's regime
Ju Ae, the only publicly acknowledged child of Kim Jong Un and his wife Ri Sol Ju, first appeared on state television in 2022, inspecting an intercontinental ballistic missile while holding her father's hand. Since then, her appearances have softened Kim Jong Un's image, portraying him as a family man rather than a ruthless dictator.
Her recent public engagements, including walking beside her father at China's military parade-rather than behind him-carry significant symbolic weight in North Korea's tightly controlled media. Lawmaker Park Sun-won suggested her role indicates she is already functioning as the de facto second-highest leader.
Questions over patriarchal traditions and timing
The NIS's assessment raises questions about North Korea's deeply patriarchal society, where a female heir would traditionally be unexpected. However, Kim Jong Un's sister, Kim Yo Jong, holds a senior position in the Workers' Party of Korea, setting a precedent for female authority in the regime.
Analysts remain puzzled by the timing, as Kim Jong Un, who appears healthy, is designating a successor at a relatively young age. The NIS plans to monitor whether Ju Ae attends the upcoming party congress, where Pyongyang is expected to outline its five-year priorities, including foreign policy and nuclear ambitions.
Uncertain future for North Korea
Ju Ae's succession could reshape North Korea's trajectory, though her influence remains unclear. Many North Koreans once hoped Kim Jong Un, educated in the West, would open the country to external engagement-a hope that went unfulfilled. As the designated heir, Ju Ae may wield unchecked power to steer the nation's future.
"Whatever plans this teenager may have for her country, she would likely have the singular power to shape it however she likes."
