In a surprising turn of events, evidence is emerging that suggests Kim Ju Ae, the young daughter of North Korean Supreme Leader Kim Jong Un, could be the chosen heir to the world’s only communist dynasty. State-controlled media and even Kim Jong Un himself have started referring to her as “General Morning Star,” a possible promotion from her previous title of “Noble Child.” This speculation has sparked curiosity and raised questions about the future leadership of North Korea.
Korean Central News Agency/Korea News Service via AP, FILE
Kim Ju Ae first made her public appearance at a missile launch in November 2022, when she was believed to be around 10 years old. Since then, she has accompanied her father to numerous public engagements, effectively becoming a prominent figure in North Korean society. This increasing visibility has led experts to believe that she may indeed be groomed as her father’s successor.
Interestingly, Kim Jong Un’s first-born child, believed to be a son around the age of 13, has never been publicly acknowledged. This omission has further fueled speculation surrounding Kim Ju Ae’s potential role in the future leadership of North Korea. The secrecy surrounding the eldest child suggests that the Supreme Leader might have different plans for succession.
The Director of South Korea’s National Intelligence Service, Cho Tae-yong, recently expressed his belief that Kim Ju Ae is being groomed to take over from her father someday. This viewpoint contradicts earlier claims by the same agency, which stated that Kim Jong Un was too young and healthy to consider any succession plans. The South Korean Unification minister, Kim Yung-ho, also commented on the matter, emphasizing that the public appearances of Kim Ju Ae indicate Kim Jong Un’s intention to demonstrate a will for succession.
If Kim Ju Ae does become the successor to her father, it would mark a significant shift in the leadership of North Korea. The dynastic rule, which has been a defining characteristic of the regime since Kim Il Sung’s reign, would continue with a third generation. However, the implications of such a succession are uncertain, as the young Kim Ju Ae’s upbringing and political ideology remain largely unknown to the international community.
While the evidence supporting Kim Ju Ae’s potential succession is growing, it is important to approach this topic with caution, given the secretive nature of the North Korean regime. The public appearances and references to her as “General Morning Star” suggest a deliberate effort to groom her for future leadership. As the world watches closely, the future of North Korea’s leadership hangs in the balance, and only time will reveal the true intentions behind Kim Jong Un’s hints about his successor.
