The daughter of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un is gradually taking on a symbolic and political role as the next leader of the DPRK.
This was reported by Reuters and Bloomberg, citing a closed briefing for the South Korean parliament from the National Intelligence Service.
It is not known exactly what Kim's daughter's name is or how old she is. South Korean officials say her name is Ju E.
Last year, she was probably around 12 or 13 years old when she traveled to China with her father, in what is believed to be her first international appearance, fueling rumors that she is being groomed to be Kim's future successor.
The intelligence also mentions her repeated public appearances at key DPRK military events and her prominent position alongside her father during field inspections.
“Previously, the intelligence service described Kim Ju-ae as a 'candidate for the position of successor,' but today the expression 'is in the process of internal appointment as successor,'” Rep. Lee Seong-kwon told reporters after a closed-door briefing.
Back in early 2024, The New York Times, citing South Korean intelligence, wrote that Kim Jong-un's daughter, Ju Ae, was his most likely successor.
On January 1, 2026, she made her first public visit to the Geumsusan State Mausoleum with her father and mother.