South Korean Intelligence Candidly States Kim Jong Un's Daughter is a Suitable Heir

South Korea’s intelligence agency has assessed that Kim Jong Un’s teenage daughter, Kim Ju Ae, is now considered a suitable candidate for succession to power. This assessment represents the strongest indication so far regarding the increasing political role of the child in maintaining the family dynasty into the fourth generation.

In a closed briefing at the National Assembly on Monday (6/4/2026), Director of the National Intelligence Service (NIS) Lee Jong-seok stated that Kim’s daughter can be viewed as an heir, in response to questions from parliament members regarding her position. This was revealed by parliament member Lee Seong Kweun, who attended the meeting.

Kim Ju Ae, who is around 13 years old, has increasingly appeared alongside her father at various important events since late 2022. North Korean state media has even dubbed her the “most beloved” or “most respected” child.

In the forum, the NIS also assessed that Kim Yo Jong, who has long been considered the number two figure in North Korea, does not hold substantial power.

“That assessment is based on reliable intelligence,” said Lee Seong Kweun, quoting the NIS presentation, as cited by The Associated Press.

Previously, in early 2024, the NIS had only referred to Kim Ju Ae as a potential heir. In February this year, the agency upgraded its assessment, stating that she is almost certain to be designated as the future leader.

However, several observers doubt this scenario. They argue that North Korean society, which remains highly patriarchal, is likely to struggle with accepting a female leader. Additionally, Kim Jong Un, now 42 years old, is considered too young to appoint a successor, as such a move could potentially weaken his grip on power.

North Korea’s history shows that power has always been passed to male members of the Kim family since the country’s founding in 1948. Kim Jong Un himself took over power following the death of his father, Kim Jong Il, in 2011, who had previously succeeded the nation’s founder, Kim Il Sung.

Recently, Kim Ju Ae has also been seen in several military activities, including driving a tank and inspecting armament facilities with her father. The NIS views these appearances as part of efforts to build her military credibility while countering scepticism about the possibility of a female leader in the future.