Meet the daughter of Kim Jong Un, Kim Ju Ae, who is likely to be the next leader of North Korea

In a country where power rarely shifts outside one family, a striking change is unfolding. Kim Ju Ae, the young daughter of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, has stepped into the public eye. South Korea’s National Intelligence Service has told lawmakers that she is now likely being prepared as the next leader. Here’s everything you need to know about the daughter of North Korea’s leader Kim Jong Un.

A child the world barely knew

For years, Kim Jong Un’s family life stayed hidden. That changed in 2013, when former basketball star Dennis Rodman mentioned holding a baby named Ju Ae during a visit to North Korea. At the time, it sounded like a strange footnote. Today, that same child is believed to be around 13 years old and is at the centre of global attention.

First steps into the spotlight

Kim Ju Ae appeared on North Korean state television for the first time in 2022. She was shown holding her father’s hand while inspecting an intercontinental ballistic missile. Since then, her appearances have grown more frequent. She has been seen at major military anniversaries and solemn state rituals, including visits to the Kumsusan Palace of the Sun. In North Korea, such appearances are never casual. Each image is carefully chosen to send a message.

Why intelligence agencies are watching her

South Korea’s spy agency says it looks at patterns, not single moments. Kim Ju Ae’s steady presence at high-level events, her position beside her father in photographs, and signs that she may be voicing opinions on state matters have all raised flags. Lawmakers were recently told she has moved from being “trained” to being “designated” as a successor. The upcoming Workers’ Party congress is now being closely watched for further signals.

Symbols that speak louder than words

In North Korean media, placement matters. Kim Ju Ae is shown walking beside her father, not behind him. These details may seem small, but in a system built on symbols, they suggest special status and future authority.

A daughter in a patriarchal system

North Korea is deeply male-dominated, which makes this moment puzzling. As per South Korean intelligence, Kim Jong Un is believed to have an older son, though the child has never been shown publicly. Choosing a daughter instead challenges long-held assumptions. Still, there is a precedent. Kim Jong Un’s sister, Kim Yo Jong, holds real power within the ruling party. Her influence shows that women can command authority in the regime, even at the highest levels.

What her rise could mean for the future

Kim Jong Un is still young and appears healthy, so the early focus on a teenage successor raises questions. It may be about stability, legacy, or control. As for Kim Ju Ae herself, little is known about her personal views. Many once hoped Kim Jong Un would open North Korea to the world, hopes that did not come true. Whether his daughter would choose a different path remains unknown, but one day she may hold the power to shape the lives of millions.


Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available reports and statements from South Korea’s National Intelligence Service and lawmakers. North Korea remains a highly secretive state, and many details about its leadership plans cannot be independently verified. Information may change as new facts emerge.