The daughter of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has taken part in a highly symbolic New Year's Day visit to the state mausoleum, a move analysts say significantly fuels speculation she is being prepared as the country's next ruler.
A Symbolic New Year's Pilgrimage
On 1 January, state media released photographs showing Kim Jong-un, his wife Ri Sol-ju, and their daughter Kim Ju-ae paying respects at the Kumsusan Palace of the Sun. The site serves as the mausoleum for Kim's grandfather, state founder Kim Il-sung, and his father, Kim Jong-il. The leader traditionally visits on key dates, but this marked the first public appearance there for his daughter, who stood between her parents in the main hall.
The images, distributed by the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), were part of New Year celebrations that also included the family attending a performance. This carefully choreographed display is seen as a potent political signal from the secretive regime.
Building a Public Profile for a Potential Heir
Kim Ju-ae, believed to have been born in the early 2010s and to have just turned 13, has seen her profile rise dramatically over the past three years. Her appearances in state media have grown increasingly prominent, culminating in her first public overseas trip to Beijing with her father in September.
Cheong Seong-chang, vice-president at the Sejong Institute thinktank, interpreted the mausoleum visit as a calculated move. He suggested it was a precursor to a potential formalisation of her status at an upcoming ruling party congress. South Korea's intelligence agency has already indicated it views Ju-ae as the likely heir, which would make her North Korea's first fourth-generation dictator.
Analysts Urge Caution Amid Family Dynamics
While the imagery promotes a narrative of a stable leadership family, experts advise caution. Hong Min, an analyst at the Korea Institute for National Unification, noted that showing Kim's wife and daughter at major events builds an image of continuity. However, he highlighted a significant complicating factor.
"It's practically impossible to publicly designate Kim Ju-ae, who is believed to have just turned 13, as the successor when she's not even old enough to join the [Workers'] party," Hong said. The potential roles of Kim Jong-un's other children, who have never been publicly seen, leave room for doubt about the final succession plan.
North Korea has never officially confirmed Ju-ae's age or explicitly outlined succession plans. Nevertheless, her integration into the core rituals of state leadership, once reserved for her father alone, sends a powerful message about her projected future role within the dynastic regime.
