Kim Jong-un is grooming his daughter Kim Ju-ae to be his successor

The North Korean leader is reportedly considering his daughter as a future head of state to ensure the continuity of power. 

This was reported by Yonhap News, citing assessments by South Korea’s National Intelligence Service dated April 6, 2026. Intelligence agencies interpret the girl’s recent public appearances at defense facilities and military exercises as an attempt to overcome skepticism regarding a female leader and to build a narrative of power transfer.

According to intelligence agencies, Kim Jong-un’s sister, Kim Yo-jong, currently has no significant leverage and does not claim leadership in the country. Kim Ju-ae, who is estimated to be 12–14 years old, has regularly accompanied her father at state celebrations and military parades since 2022, and was recently spotted driving a new battle tank. 

Official Pyongyang keeps detailed information about the 42-year-old head of state’s family under wraps, though foreign sources report that he has three children, of whom only Kim Ju-ae appears in public. The issue of succession in North Korea remains relevant amid rumors about the current leader’s health and the need to stabilize the regime under sanctions pressure from the West and Russia.

As a reminder, Kim Jong Un unveiled a tank with “absolute” protection against drones.

Kim Jong Un also established a cult of those killed in the war against Ukraine ahead of the upcoming party congress.