North Korea’s opaque political succession has suddenly moved into the spotlight as signs emerge that supreme leader Kim Jong Un may be grooming his teenage daughter, Kim Ju Ae, to succeed him, a choice that could set up a dramatic power struggle with his influential sister, Kim Yo Jong.South Korea’s National Intelligence Service (NIS) told lawmakers that Ju Ae, believed to be around 13 years old, has moved beyond mere “successor training” and is now in what intelligence officials describe as the “successor designate stage”.Her growing presence at key public events with father Kim Jong Un–from military inspections and missile tests to visits with her father–is being interpreted as a clear signal that the North Korean leadership is positioning her for future rule in the hermit kingdom.Ju Ae first began appearing with Kim Jong Un in 2022, and her exposure escalated in events across 2025, including a high-profile trip to Beijing, her first known international outing. Analysts point to these appearances and her portrayal in state media as part of a carefully crafted narrative to normalize her status as heir to the Kim dynasty.However, Ju Ae’s youth and lack of political experience — in a system that has historically been dominated by seasoned male leaders — make her vulnerable to internal challenges. The most prominent potential contender is Kim Yo Jong, a senior executive in the ruling Workers’ Party of Korea and one of North Korea’s most powerful figures. Long seen as a close adviser to her brother, Yo Jong has built up her own influence within the party and military structures, and former intelligence officials warn she would not hesitate to seize power if an opportunity arises.Former South Korean intelligence official Ra Jong yil has explicitly warned that if Ju Ae is officially named successor, a fierce power struggle with her aunt could follow, given Yo Jong’s political ambition and high standing. Observers note that North Korea’s recent history is marked by violent purges and ruthless consolidation of power, such as the execution of Kim’s uncle and the assassination of his half-brother, thus explaining us how bad internal disputes can become.
