Speculation is mounting about the potential successor to North Korean Supreme Leader Kim Jong Un, and all eyes are turning toward his young daughter, Kim Ju Ae. The emerging evidence suggests a significant role for the daughter within the world’s only communist dynasty.
Referred to as “General Morning Star” by state-controlled media and even by Kim Jong Un himself, this title elevation follows North Korea’s recent launch of its inaugural spy satellite. This symbolic promotion seems to elevate her status from the initial designation of “Noble Child,” previously held by her father and grandfather, Kim Il Sung, the founder of the regime.
Kim Ju Ae first appeared publicly at a missile launch in November 2022, believed to be around 10 years old at the time. Since then, she has been by her father’s side at numerous public engagements, a notable presence alongside the North Korean leader.
In contrast, Kim Jong Un’s eldest child, a son around 13 years old, remains unacknowledged in official state appearances.
South Korea’s National Intelligence Service Director, Cho Tae-yong, made headlines this month by suggesting that Kim Ju Ae might be in line to succeed her father, despite earlier claims from the same agency that Kim Jong Un was too young and healthy for such considerations.
The South Korean Unification minister, Kim Yung-ho, observed that the prominence of Kim Ju Ae in North Korean state media might indicate Kim Jong Un’s intentions for succession. This move to place her in the spotlight at an early age is being closely monitored, as it suggests an active role in future leadership.
As the world watches the unfolding dynamics within North Korea’s ruling family, the rise of Kim Ju Ae as a potential successor hints at a new era in the country’s leadership.
