Kim Jong-un made history by being the first North Korean leader to attend a Chinese military parade in 66 years. However, it was his teenage daughter, Kim Ju Ae, who stole the spotlight during the event. Known for her rare public appearances, Kim Ju Ae is speculated to potentially succeed her father as North Korea’s next leader, given the close ties Kim maintains with the women in his family.
Believed to be the second eldest child of the dictator, Kim Ju Ae is estimated to be a teenager, with reports suggesting she might be around 12 or 13 years old now. Referred to as the “respected” daughter in North Korea, she holds a significant position within the regime, indicating her growing importance in Kim’s family circle.
The existence of Kim Ju Ae came to light when former NBA star Dennis Rodman revealed the presence of more than one child in Kim’s family during a visit to Pyongyang in 2013. Since then, Kim Ju Ae has gradually made public appearances, including her recent attendance at a military event in 2023 after being featured on postage stamps and attending high-level banquets in North Korea.
Experts speculate that Kim’s public appearance with his daughter serves to reinforce the image of a strong family dynasty and a close relationship with the military. Furthermore, showcasing himself as a caring father to the public might also be a motive behind such public appearances.
Described as enjoying activities like horse riding, skiing, and swimming, Kim Ju Ae is believed to have been homeschooled in Pyongyang. While she is the only publicly known child of the dictator, it is rumored that Kim and his wife have two other children.
Kim Ju Ae, with her distinctive style and occasional public appearances, continues to intrigue observers as a potential figure in North Korea’s future leadership landscape.