North Korean leader Kim Jong Un is reportedly preparing his teenage daughter, Kim Ju Ae, to succeed him as the country’s leader, according to newly released South Korean intelligence briefings. The National Intelligence Service (NIS) has indicated that Kim Ju Ae is being trained as the heir apparent, marking her as the likely successor in the Kim family’s hereditary rule.
Hereditary Succession in the Kim Dynasty
“Pyongyang is teaching Kim Ju Ae to be heir apparent, indicating she’s the most likely successor,” South Korean MP Lee Seong-kweun told reporters after a briefing from the intelligence agency. Kim Ju Ae, whose age remains unconfirmed but is speculated to be around 12, has been seen accompanying her father at various public events, particularly those related to military activities. According to ABC News, more than half of her public appearances have involved overseeing military drills, which aligns with the NIS’s assessment that she is being prepared for a leadership role. The state media has referred to her as a “great person of guidance,” a title typically reserved for leaders and successors, further fueling speculation about her future role.
Kim Jong Un’s Health Concerns
The NIS has also expressed concerns regarding Kim Jong Un’s health, noting that he is “heavily overweight” at approximately 140 kg, which places him at high risk for heart-related illnesses. He has a family history of heart problems, as both his father and grandfather died from heart issues. Reports suggest that Kim has shown symptoms of high blood pressure and diabetes since his early 30s, and North Korea is reportedly seeking Western medicine to address these health issues.
Future of North Korea’s Leadership
While Kim Ju Ae is currently seen as the front-runner in the succession plan, the NIS has not discounted the possibility of another sibling emerging as a potential alternative. The North Korean regime is closely monitoring public reactions to Kim Ju Ae’s role, adjusting her exposure to ensure a smooth transition of power when the time comes. As Kim Jong Un’s health continues to be a focal point for external observers, the implications of his succession plan remain critical for the stability of North Korea and its nuclear arsenal. First introduced in 2022, Ms. Kim was initially believed to be Kim Jong Un’s second child. It is thought that Kim Jong Un and his wife, Ri Sol Ju, have three children — two daughters and a son — though North Korea has never officially confirmed this.