Here we go again—North Korea is up to its usual antics, but it’s a family affair this time. Kim Jong-un, the supreme leader with a supreme appetite, seems to be grooming his young daughter, Kim Ju-ae, to be his successor. Yes, you read that right. According to Seoul’s spy agency, the National Intelligence Service, North Korea is prepping a pre-teen to take over one of the most secretive and oppressive regimes in the world.
The South Korean parliament’s intelligence committee got the scoop during a briefing about the Pyongyang regime. Lee Seong-kwon, the committee secretary, stated that there’s a strong indication that Kim Ju-ae might be next in line. He mentioned that North Korea is carefully adjusting the levels of propaganda and her exposure to the outside world while secretly training her for leadership.
Kim Ju-ae believed to be between 10 and 12 years old, made her public debut at a missile launch in November 2022. Since then, she’s been spotted attending various events with her father. Initially called Kim’s “beloved” daughter, she was later referred to as “respected”—a title once used for her father. This shift in terminology has fueled speculation that she’s being groomed to take over someday.
Despite her increasing public presence, rumors persist about her having an older brother and a younger sibling. However, they’ve never been seen publicly, leaving the succession question somewhat open.
Let’s not forget the elephant in the room—Kim Jong-un’s health. The guy’s reportedly weighing in at a hefty 308 pounds with a body mass index in the mid-40s. According to Lee, Kim has shown symptoms of high blood pressure and diabetes since his early thirties. If he doesn’t get his health in check, there’s a strong chance he might develop cardiovascular disease, which runs in the family.
Lee also highlighted that the language of the North Korean state media surrounding Ju-ae suggests a solidifying successor structure. Terms like “hyangdo” or “direction,” typically reserved for heirs, are now used for Ju-ae. Yet, since nothing is set in stone, the Seoul spy agency hasn’t ruled out the possibility of another sibling stepping forward or some other unexpected change.
So, while North Korea’s dictatorship might seem like a twisted reality show, this family drama is no laughing matter. The world watches as Kim Jong-un’s young daughter is paraded around, potentially being set up for a future no child should have to face.
