Growing signs from state media and intelligence officials suggest that the daughter of Kim Jong Un could one day become the next leader of North Korea. Although no official announcement has been made, analysts say recent public appearances by his daughter, Kim Ju Ae, point to possible plans for a future transfer of power.
Kim Ju Ae first appeared publicly in 2022 at a missile launch event. Since then, she has stood beside her father at military parades, weapons tests, and major national celebrations. Observers note that state media have used respectful, elevated language when referring to her, a language often reserved for top leaders. These details have led experts to believe she may be receiving preparation for leadership.
The National Intelligence Service recently briefed lawmakers in South Korea about North Korea’s expected plans. According to reports, the agency believes Kim Ju Ae is likely in a stage of formal succession training. While the agency did not claim that a final decision has been made, officials said her public role appears larger than that of an ordinary family member.
It wouldn’t be much of a shock since North Korea has been ruled by the same family since its founding in 1948, but she will be the first female supreme leader ever in North Korea, which is one of the bigger parts, and we don’t know yet what kind of a leader she will be.
ERHS senior Calvin Bayani shared his opinion on the matter. “Let’s hope she’s better than her father and the ones who came before her.”
Experts outside the country are watching closely.
“There is a strong possibility that Kim Jong Un is preparing his daughter as his successor, given the way she is being presented to the public,” said Cheong Seong Chang, a senior analyst at the Sejong Institute. He added that future meetings of the Workers’ Party of Korea could offer more clues about her official status.
For now, much remains uncertain. North Korea’s government does not openly discuss succession plans, and information from inside the country is limited. However, Kim Ju Ae’s continued presence at major events has fueled international attention and raised questions about the future direction of one of the world’s most secretive nations.
