This was the culmination of this regime staging. The photos show a girl at a shooting range in a weapons factory. Squinting one eye, he fires a gun next to experienced, highly decorated officers. Like his father, he is wearing a leather jacket – only more fashionably cut and a few sizes smaller. Of course, the proud dad is right next to him, looking closely at the guns and rifles.
Kim Ju Ae tests a pistol at a North Korean weapons factory, March 11, 2026.PAP/EPA/KCNA
The photos were supposed to be taken last Wednesday. Shortly earlier, the regime released photos of father and daughter together they participate in a concert on the occasion of International Women's Day in the capital, Pyongyang. Kim Jong Un tenderly places his hand on the hand of the girl who on this special day pinned a red star brooch to her lapel.
Kim Jong Un watches a spectacle on International Women's Day on March 8, 2026.KCNA
We know the name of Kim's daughter thanks to an American basketball player
Little is known about the dictator's daughter. She is said to be the child of Kim Jong Un and his wife, former singer Ri Sol-ju. But as it happens in North Korea – a totalitarian state – however, there is no certainty about thisjust as it is not known whether the girl has any siblings and exactly how old she is.
Ri Sol Ju and Kim Jong Un watch a performance to celebrate Kim Jong Il's birth anniversary. Pyongyang, February 16, 2021EPA/KCNA/PAP
Her name, which has not been officially confirmed, revealed former NBA player Dennis Rodman. The American star met the dictator (who is himself a basketball fan) a few years ago during a controversial propaganda visit – and, according to his own words, he was holding a little girl in his arms at the time.
She made her debut during a rocket test
For many years, Kim Ju Ae's existence has been a topic of speculation. Only in November 2022 did she appear in photos published by the regime — not at all in a children's setting, during an intercontinental missile test. Since then, he has accompanied his father regularly during military parades, propaganda events and weapons tests. The fact that her photos are officially distributed by the regime is telling.
Kim Ju Ae and Kim Jong Un during a photo session with participants of a successful ballistic missile test, November 27, 2022.EPA/KCNA/PAP
State media describe the girl as a “respected daughter.” Commentators see this as an attempt to portray her as a potential successor. Let us recall that Kim Jong Un took power after his father, Kim Jong Il, who in turn took power after the death of his father, “beloved leader” Kim Il-sung.
Woman leading North Korea? This would be a precedent
The fact that the daughter comes to the fore today causes quite a stir. North Korea is considered a deeply patriarchal state — since 1948 it has been ruled exclusively by men. Any transfer of power to a woman would be an unprecedented event in the history of this isolated country.
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Observers also wonder why Kim is already placing pawns so clearly on the chessboard of power. The leader is relatively young and, at least according to available information, in stable health. However, it is possible that the idea is to secure the continuity of the dynasty as early as possible and gradual familiarization of the elites with a view to future change.
The dictator's daughter learns the foundations of how the regime functions
According to South Korean intelligence, Ju Ae received a private education in Pyongyang, designed with an eventual leadership role in mind. The curriculum was to include not only general subjects, but also political and military issues — that is, the foundations of the functioning of the regime. Her famous activities include horse riding, skiing and swimming. In elite circles, they are considered part of a disciplined upbringing that builds character and resilience – traits seen as essential in a future leader.
Kim Ju Ae and Kim Jong Un watch a broadcast of a cruise missile launch on March 10, 2026.Korean Central News Agency/Korea News Service via AP/East News
So is the world watching the beginning of another dynastic succession in Pyongyang? There is still no official confirmation, but The signals coming from North Korea are becoming more and more clear. In a country where nothing happens by accident, even the presence of a teenager at the leader's side can herald something much greater.
I’m Ashley Davis as an editor, I’m committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity and accuracy in every piece we publish. My work is driven by curiosity, a passion for truth, and a belief that journalism plays a crucial role in shaping public discourse. I strive to tell stories that not only inform but also inspire action and conversation.
