North Korean leader Kim Jong Un's daughter, Kim Ju Ae, recently made her first known international appearance during a diplomatic visit to Beijing in early September 2025. This significant event, where she accompanied her father to a military parade commemorating the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, has intensified speculation about her potential role as successor to the Kim dynasty.
Kim Ju Ae, believed to be around 12 or 13 years old, was photographed standing closely behind her father, a position typically reserved for high-ranking officials. This marked a notable step onto the global diplomatic stage for the young girl, who has been increasingly visible in North Korean state media since her first public appearance in November 2022. Her presence in Beijing, a crucial ally and economic lifeline for North Korea, underscores the strategic importance of this debut.
The visit signifies a continuation of the close ties cultivated by previous generations of the Kim family with China. Analysts and South Korea's National Intelligence Service (NIS) view Kim Ju Ae as the most likely successor, citing her growing public profile and the titles bestowed upon her by state media. However, traditional patriarchal values within North Korea raise questions about the feasibility of a female leader, with some officials reportedly expressing skepticism about a woman ascending to power.
This international debut in Beijing is seen by many as a deliberate signal from Kim Jong Un, echoing historical precedents where North Korean leaders introduced potential successors to China. The timing and nature of her appearance suggest a deliberate grooming process, potentially preparing her for future leadership responsibilities. While her public engagements have expanded from military events to diplomatic functions, her absence from subsequent official events during the Beijing visit has led to more cautious interpretations among some observers.
Despite the ongoing speculation, North Korea's succession plans remain largely unconfirmed, shrouded in the nation's characteristic secrecy. The role of Kim Ju Ae is a critical point of interest for understanding the future trajectory of North Korean leadership and its implications for regional stability. Her journey from a rarely seen child to a figure of international attention highlights the complex dynamics at play within the Kim dynasty and the broader geopolitical landscape.