North Korean leader Kim Jong Un is strengthening his daughter Kim Ju Ae's position as a potential successor at age 13-14. South Korean intelligence indicates she is now involved in policy input and may attend a key party meeting. Analysts view this as preparation for fourth-generation leadership.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un is reportedly taking steps to prepare his daughter, Kim Ju Ae, as successor. According to a briefing from South Korea's National Intelligence Service (NIS), parliament member Lee Seong-kweun stated that Kim Ju Ae is now in the internal designation stage as successor, differing from the previous learning phase. "Previously, NIS described Kim Ju Ae as still 'in the learning stage as successor.' But today, the term used is that she is 'in the internal designation stage as successor,'" Lee told reporters after a closed session on Thursday local time.
Kim Ju Ae has frequently appeared in state media, accompanying her father on field visits, including weapons projects. NIS notes she is beginning to provide policy input and is treated as de facto second-in-command, as conveyed by Lee alongside Park Sun-won. The agency will monitor her attendance at the 9th Workers' Party Congress opening in late February, including her introduction and possible official role.
The congress is expected to outline major policies in economy, foreign relations, and defense. Additionally, Kim Jong Un is directing the development of a large submarine weighing 8,700 tons capable of carrying up to 10 submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs), powered by a nuclear reactor, according to Park and Lee.
