Kim Jong Un's Daughter Designated as Successor
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has selected his daughter as his heir, South Korea's spy agency reported on Thursday.
Little is known about Kim Ju Ae, who has been seen accompanying her father during significant events. Notably, she made her first international trip to Beijing in September, which drew substantial attention.
The National Intelligence Service (NIS) disclosed that they based their conclusion on several factors, particularly her increasing public presence in official capacities.
Attention is now focused on whether she will participate in the upcoming party congress, North Korea's largest political event held once every five years, where crucial directions for future policy will be established.
Lawmaker Lee Seong-kwen mentioned that Ju Ae has transitioned from being "trained" for succession to "successor designation". Citing her visible involvement at various governmental events, such as military anniversaries, the NIS now views her as likely successor.
Ju Ae is notably Kim Jong Un's only publicly known child with wife Ri Sol Ju. Although speculation exists regarding an older son, he has not been acknowledged nor presented in the media.
According to reports, her presence at state events has served to soften her father's authoritarian image. Her attire and hairstyles, which diverge from typical norms, underscore her distinct status.
While many global observers are surprised by a daughter potentially ascending to North Korea's leadership, given the deeply rooted patriarchal customs, there are precedents of strong women in the regime, notably Kim Yo Jong, Kim Jong Un's sister.
This designation raises various questions regarding future governance in North Korea, especially considering Kim Jong Un's relative youth and health.
As this situation unfolds, attention will remain keen on how Kim Ju Ae navigates the intricacies of power within a regime steeped in tradition.
