South Korea's National Intelligence Service briefed lawmakers Thursday that Kim Jong Un's daughter—widely believed to be named Kim Ju Ae and approximately 13 years old—has progressed from 'successor training' to a 'successor-designate stage.' The assessment is based on her increasing presence at high-profile events since her first public appearance in November 2022 at a missile test. She has since attended military parades, weapons tests, factory openings, and in January 2026 visited the Kumsusan Palace of the Sun, the mausoleum holding the bodies of her grandfather and great-grandfather.
The NIS cited her positioning in state media photos, her travel with Kim to Beijing in September 2025 for a World War II commemoration, and what lawmakers described as 'signs' she is providing input on policy matters. South Korean officials are monitoring whether she appears at the upcoming Workers' Party Congress later this month and whether she receives any official title or recognition.
Her name has not been officially confirmed by North Korean state media, which refers to her only with honorifics like 'respected' or 'most beloved' child. The name 'Kim Ju Ae' comes from former NBA player Dennis Rodman, who said he held Kim's baby daughter during a 2013 visit. South Korean intelligence believes Kim has at least two other children, including an older son who has never appeared publicly.
