As political tensions in East Asia intensify, South Korea’s National Intelligence Service (NIS) has indicated that Kim Jong-un’s daughter may soon be officially named as his successor. This development coincides with North Korea’s preparations for a significant political conference later this month, where Kim is expected to unveil his strategic vision for the next five years.
A Shift in Leadership Dynamics
The NIS has conveyed its belief that Kim’s daughter, thought to be approximately 13 years old and reportedly named Kim Ju-ae, could be poised for a prominent role in North Korea’s leadership hierarchy. During a confidential briefing for lawmakers, NIS officials highlighted their scrutiny of whether she will accompany her father at the Workers’ Party congress, a gathering anticipated to draw thousands of delegates. According to Lee Seong Kweun, a member of the National Assembly who attended the meeting, this potential appearance would mark a crucial step in solidifying her status.
Ju-ae’s public presence has gradually increased since she first emerged at a missile launch in November 2022. Since then, she has attended a variety of state events, from military parades to significant diplomatic engagements, including her father’s summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing last September. Her participation in these high-profile occasions has sparked speculation regarding her future and the continuation of the Kim family dynasty into a fourth generation.
The Significance of Recent Appearances
The speculation surrounding Ju-ae’s political future gained momentum following a New Year’s Day visit to the Kumsusan Palace of the Sun in Pyongyang, a revered mausoleum housing the remains of her grandfather and great-grandfather—North Korea’s first two leaders. This visit has been interpreted by experts as a strong indication of her potential ascension to leadership. While initial skepticism from South Korean officials suggested that the deeply ingrained patriarchal culture of North Korea would hinder any female succession, Ju-ae’s increasing visibility in state media has led to a reconsideration of her prospects.
In previous assessments, the NIS characterised Ju-ae’s presence as part of a “successor training” process. However, the agency’s recent shift in terminology to “successor-designate stage” underscores a significant evolution in her perceived role. Lee elaborated that the agency noted her attendance at key military functions, her involvement in family ceremonies, and indications that Kim Jong-un might be soliciting her opinions on certain policy matters.
Limited Knowledge About the Future Leader
Despite the mounting attention, little is publicly known about Kim Ju-ae. North Korean state media have never formally acknowledged her name, referring to her instead as the leader’s “respected” or “most beloved” child. The name Kim Ju-ae is derived from comments made by former NBA star Dennis Rodman, who mentioned holding a baby girl during his visit to Pyongyang in 2013. South Korean intelligence suggests that she was born in the same year. Furthermore, it is believed that Kim and his wife may have an older son and a younger child, whose gender remains undisclosed.
Historically, North Korea has been governed exclusively by male members of the Kim lineage, starting with founder Kim Il-sung, followed by his son Kim Jong-il. Kim Jong-un himself was designated as heir at the young age of 26 during a party conference in 2010, following his father’s stroke. His rapid inheritance of power serves as a potential backdrop to his decision to introduce his daughter into the public eye at such an early stage.
Why it Matters
The prospect of Kim Jong-un’s daughter assuming a leadership role could signify a pivotal transformation in North Korean governance. Not only does it challenge traditional gender norms within the regime, but it also raises questions about the future direction of the country under her potential leadership. As Kim continues to consolidate his power, the implications of a younger successor could reverberate through the geopolitical landscape of East Asia, influencing diplomatic relationships and security strategies for the region.
