The National Intelligence Service (NIS) has assessed that Kim Ju-ae, the daughter of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, is solidifying her status as a successor. The analysis indicates that public activities concentrated in the military sector are aimed at enhancing her image as a military leader and improving public perception of her as a potential successor.
During a briefing related to the NIS's audit on October 29, lawmakers Yoon Gun-young of the Democratic Party and Yoo Young-ha of the People Power Party shared these findings.
According to Yoon, NIS Director Lee Jong-seok responded to questions about Kim Ju-ae's succession status by stating, "It appears that the succession phase is being further solidified." He also confirmed that her name is indeed Kim Ju-ae, marking the first time the NIS has publicly acknowledged her name.
The NIS reported that since Kim Ju-ae's first public appearance in 2022, there has been a gradual emphasis on her status as a successor through a chronological analysis of her public activities. The agency noted that it is selectively identifying activities that could help her accumulate political capital and build a positive image.
Notably, military-related activities accounted for 60% of her total public engagements. The NIS explained that there have been instances of her participating in military events, contributing to the narrative of her as a military leader.
In the fields of nuclear and missile development, the NIS reported that Kim Ju-ae appears to be involved in practical aspects, although it has not confirmed her actual decision-making authority. The agency emphasized that her public appearances are designed to highlight her role and image as a successor.
Regarding Kim Jong-un's health, the NIS indicated that his basic health metrics are being managed within normal ranges, with the exception of identified hyperlipidemia.
Additionally, the NIS evaluated that Kim Jong-un is managing the regime stably with a loyal cadre consisting of key figures such as Kim Yo-jong, Jo Yong-won, Choi Sun-hee, and Park Jong-chun.
The ongoing anti-corruption campaign within the military, initiated following a major corruption scandal in the General Political Bureau, has expanded to include all party officials and has been ongoing for four months. The NIS explained that North Korea is also focusing on establishing internal discipline, as evidenced by various official events and preparations for party cell secretary conferences.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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