Undoubtedly, any detail, big or small, about the regime in North Korea piques curiosity due to the significant mystery surrounding the country. The young daughter of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, who emerged publicly about a year ago, has become the focus of global attention as she is seen as a potential heir to her father, according to the South Korean intelligence agency, which provided the first assessment of the girl on Thursday.
A widespread debate and speculation have arisen abroad regarding the girl, said to be around 10 years old and named Ju Ae, since her first public appearance in November 2022 when she witnessed a long-range missile launch with her father. Since then, the girl has accompanied her father to several major public events, where she has been described by state media as the "most beloved child" of her father or "the most considerate." Additionally, footage and photos have been released showcasing her rising political status and closeness to her father.
Adding to the mystery are the actions of high-ranking officials in the country in front of the child, such as when one senior general knelt and whispered to her as she clapped during a military parade in September. She was also seen standing in front of her father during a visit to an air force base, both wearing sunglasses and long leather coats.
Her most recent appearance was at a New Year's Eve celebration at a packed Pyongyang stadium on Sunday, where Kim Jong Un kissed her on the cheek, and she did the same with her mother. It's noteworthy that the South Korean National Intelligence Service stated on Thursday that it considers Kim Ju Ae a very likely successor to her father, based on a thorough analysis of her public activities and the official protocols presented to her.
The public affairs office at the South Korean National Intelligence Service mentioned that it continues to study all possibilities regarding the power succession process in the North, as Kim is still young, does not suffer from major health issues, and has at least one other child, according to the Associated Press. Additionally, Kim will turn 40 on Monday.
