Kim Jong Un's Underage Daughter Kim Ju Ae May Become His Successor, South Korean Intelligence Believes
South Korean intelligence has revealed that Kim Ju Ae, the underage daughter of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, may be poised to become his successor. This assessment, based on credible intelligence rather than circumstantial evidence, was shared with lawmakers by the National Intelligence Service of South Korea.
The National Intelligence Service of South Korea has disclosed information suggesting that Kim Ju Ae, the minor daughter of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, could potentially be groomed as his successor. This revelation comes from a statement made to lawmakers, indicating that their evaluation is based on reliable intelligence rather than mere speculation.
According to the intelligence report, recently published photographs of Kim Ju Ae, in which she is seen driving a tank, are intended to highlight her supposed military capabilities. This strategy aims to dispel doubts regarding a woman's ability to assume a leadership role in the patriarchal society of North Korea.
In March of this year, the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) released a series of images featuring Kim Jong Un alongside his daughter, Kim Ju Ae, showcasing a new tank. These photos follow earlier releases depicting Kim Ju Ae shooting a rifle at a firing range and handling a pistol. Experts believe these actions are indicative of an effort to emphasize the military training of the North Korean leader's daughter.
Pak Song Won, a lawmaker from the ruling Democratic Party of South Korea, commented on these images, suggesting that they pay homage to Kim Jong Un's public appearances in the military during the early 2010s, when he was being prepared to succeed his father as president. This implies that Kim Ju Ae may be receiving similar preparations for a future role.
According to the National Intelligence Service, Kim Ju Ae's repeated appearances at defense-related events are aimed at dispelling doubts about a woman's potential to become a successor and accelerating the public's acceptance of a narrative concerning dynastic succession. This suggests that Kim Ju Ae is already being viewed as a de facto second-in-command within the leadership of North Korea.
Consequently, Kim Ju Ae's active participation in public events and military training could signal that Kim Jong Un's regime is preparing her for a future role in governing the country. This also highlights a shift in traditional perceptions of gender roles within the political context of North Korea, where women typically do not hold high-ranking positions in leadership.
It is important to note that amid international isolation and economic difficulties faced by North Korea, the issues of succession and political stability have become particularly pressing. The South Korean intelligence community continues to monitor these changes, analyzing the situation in the neighboring country to anticipate possible scenarios for future developments.