Feb 13 • 14:12 UTC 🇪🇸 Spain El País

Portrait of Ju-ae, the teenage daughter chosen as heir by Kim Jong-un, according to Seoul

Kim Jong-un's daughter, Ju-ae, has emerged from obscurity to become a notable figure alongside her father, indicating a potential hereditary succession in North Korea.

Ju-ae, the teenage daughter of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, has transitioned from being virtually unseen to a prominent presence in North Korean state affairs. Officially presented in 2022 alongside a nuclear-capable missile, she is viewed by the state media as a potential 'guide' for the nation. This marks her as the first known member of the regime's fourth generation, suggesting that preparations for her future role may be underway.

Despite her rising visibility, detailed information about Ju-ae remains scarce. The North Korean regime has not publicly confirmed her name or age, and as such, there is no comprehensive biography available. Any knowledge of her life mainly derives from carefully curated images released by the state, which are intended to manage her public perception. The lack of transparency regarding her upbringing and capabilities raises questions about the implications of her emergence in the political landscape of North Korea.

As Ju-ae's presence alongside Kim Jong-un becomes more routine, analysts speculate about her role in the dynastic governance of North Korea. This development indicates a possible ambition for continuity in leadership, even as the nation faces external pressures and internal challenges. The regime's decision to showcase Ju-ae could be a strategic move to reinforce the Kim family's grip on power in the world's most secretive country, signifying a potential shift in the narrative of succession under the Kim dynasty.

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