North Korean supreme leader Kim Jong Un and his daughter Kim Ju-Ae made a rare international appearance on September 03, 2025, at China’s biggest-ever military parade in Beijing to honor the 80th anniversary of Japan’s World War II defeat. Her very first-ever public appearance has generated worldwide speculation on her possible status as the future leader of North Korea.
Who Is Kim Ju-ae?
Kim Ju-ae is the child of Kim Jong Un and his wife, Ri Sol-ju, a former North Korean singer and cheerleader. She was first publicly named in 2013 by retired NBA player Dennis Rodman during his trip to North Korea. Although North Korean state media has not formally released her name and birthdate, South Korean intelligence estimates that she was born in 2012 or 2013. Her first public appearances were made in 2022 when she joined her father at a missile launch site, a peculiar action that attracted a lot of attention. Since then, she has appeared so many times, usually referred to as Kim Jong Un’s “beloved” or “respected” daughter, a description usually used for the most privileged members of North Korean society.
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Why Kim Jong Un Took Kim Ju-ae to China?
Kim Ju-ae’s participation in the Beijing military parade is viewed as a serious political move. By taking his daughter Kim Ju Ae to this high-profile event, Kim Jong Un might be symbolically indicating her as his selected successor after him, who seems to be the first woman leader in North Korean history.
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Supporting Diplomatic Relations:
Kim Ju Ae joining Kim Jong Un at the China Victory parade, which also included former Russian President Vladimir Putin, highlights the fostering of diplomatic relations between North Korea, China, and Russia.
Preparing for Leadership:
Experts opine that Kim Ju-ae’s introduction to global diplomacy and statecraft is a part of polishing her for future leadership in North Korea. Her taking part in such occasions gives her real-life experience in handling foreign leaders and knowing matters concerning the world.
The Significance of Her International Debut Kim Ju-ae’s international debut is unprecedented for a member of the Kim clan. Neither her father nor her aunt, Kim Yo Jong, traveled with Kim Jong Il on overseas trips as children. Her visit to the Beijing parade also comes amid increased tensions between China and the West, with President Xi Jinping highlighting cooperation over confrontation.
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