Kim Jong Un Prepares Daughter for North Korean Leadership: Seoul
Speculation is growing that North Korean leader Kim Jong Un is preparing his daughter, Kim Ju Ae, for future leadership. This assessment comes from South Korea’s National Intelligence Service, which indicated that she is being positioned as her father’s successor.
Kim Ju Ae’s Rise in North Korean Politics
During a closed-door briefing, South Korean legislators learned of the agency’s findings. This information was later shared with the public by politicians Park Seon-won and Lee Seong-gwon. They noted that Ju Ae’s participation in official events is increasing, suggesting her father’s intention to introduce her into leadership roles.
Notable Public Appearances
Kim Ju Ae made her public debut in 2022 during a missile test launch. Since then, she has appeared at several important events, including:
- The Armed Forces Day ceremony.
- A visit to the Kumsusan Palace of the Sun, the resting place of North Korea’s founding leaders.
- A launch event for a multiple-rocket system with her father in January.
Her visibility highlights her potential role in the North Korean regime. Analysts believe she is entering the “succession selection stage” based on her active participation in state affairs.
Upcoming Political Events and Speculations
Speculation regarding Kim Ju Ae’s future in politics may intensify with her possible appearance at the upcoming Workers’ Party congress. Scheduled for later this month, this important event is expected to outline significant policy objectives and may further clarify her status within the regime.
Background on Kim Ju Ae
Very little is publicly known about Kim Ju Ae, including her exact age, but she is assumed to be in her teens. Her family lineage places her as the granddaughter of Kim Il Sung and Kim Jong Il. This background underscores the significance of her role as a potential successor.
Military Developments
Amid these developments, Kim Jong Un is also focused on enhancing North Korea’s military capabilities. Reports suggest he is overseeing the construction of a large submarine. This submarine is expected to accommodate multiple submarine-launched ballistic missiles and potentially be powered by nuclear technology.
The evolving situation in North Korea underscores the strategic positioning of Kim Ju Ae and the possible implications for the regime’s future. El-Balad will continue to monitor these developments closely.
