Kim Ju Ye as Kim Jong Un's successor ... South Korea's intelligence agency predicts

South Korea’s National Intelligence Service has assessed that North Korean leader Kim Jong Un may be preparing to pass on leadership responsibilities to his daughter, Kim Ju Ae. The agency reportedly briefed lawmakers on this possibility.

Kim Ju Ae was first introduced to the public in 2022 and has since appeared at several major state and military events. Her increasing visibility has fueled speculation that she is being positioned as a future leader.

Initially, South Korean intelligence analysts believed that North Korea’s traditionally male-dominated political structure would make such a transition unlikely. However, given her prominent presence in state affairs, the agency has reassessed its view and now considers her potential succession to be at a significant stage.

Kim Jong Un himself rose to power through hereditary succession. Analysts suggest that the upcoming Workers’ Party conference later this month could serve as a platform for signaling or formalizing any succession plans.