A South Korean intelligence report suggests a potential power struggle between Kim Jong Un's daughter, Kim Ju-ae, and his sister, Kim Yo-jong, as the leader prepares for succession.
According to a report from the British newspaper 'Telegraph', Kim Jong Un has reportedly chosen his 13-year-old daughter, Kim Ju-ae, to be groomed for leadership, as evidenced by her frequent appearances alongside him at significant military and diplomatic events. This announcement raises concerns over a looming power struggle within the Kim dynasty, specifically between Ju-ae and her aunt, Kim Yo-jong, who is recognized as the second most powerful figure in North Korea and holds considerable influence within the ruling Workers' Party and the military.
Furthermore, Yo-jong, who is 38 years old, is believed to be strategizing to seize power in the event of Kim Jong Un's death or significant health issues, posing a serious threat to the young Ju-ae. The historical context of the Kim family, known for its ruthless approach to eliminating political adversaries, heightens the stakes of this potential conflict. Former South Korean ambassador Jung-il emphasized that such a legacy of political assassinations adds to the danger facing Ju-ae in this power struggle.
Thus, the scenario outlined by the 'Telegraph' signals a precarious future for North Korea, where internal rivalries might not only affect the succession process but also have repercussions for the regime's stability. As Ju-ae begins her public life, the dynamics of her relationship with Yo-jong will be closely observed, illustrating the broader implications of familial loyalty and power within a historically tyrannical lineage.
