North Korean leader Kim Jong Un arrived in Beijing on Tuesday aboard his armored train, accompanied by his daughter Kim Ju Ae. It was his first trip to China in six years, timed with a massive military parade marking 80 years since the end of World War II.
Chinese officials said leaders from more than 20 nations, including Russia’s Vladimir Putin and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, participated in the commemoration. For Kim and his daughter, it marked their first appearance together at a major international gathering.
Spotlight on Kim Ju Ae
State media released photos showing 12-year-old Kim Ju Ae standing beside her father as China’s foreign minister greeted them in Beijing. Since her public debut in 2022, Kim Ju Ae has frequently appeared in official coverage with honorifics such as “dear” or “most beloved” daughter.
South Korean analysts interpret her visibility as a sign she is being groomed as Kim Jong Un’s possible successor. She has no formal role.
In recent years, her presence has expanded from occasional appearances to prominent roles at military events, parades and diplomatic meetings.
From childlike to commanding
Kim Ju Ae’s image has been carefully curated. Early appearances showed her in childlike clothing, while more recent outings feature tailored coats and suits, emphasizing maturity.
She has often been positioned alongside generals. However, in one instance, a senior officer kneeled before her. It’s a gesture once reserved only for Kim Jong Un.
In state media, she has increasingly replaced her mother, Ri Sol Ju, and her aunt, Kim Yo Jong, as the family’s most visible female figure.
Why it matters
The Kim dynasty has ruled North Korea since its founding in 1948, making it the world’s only communist family regime. Observers speculated that Kim Jong Un’s health concerns — South Korean intelligence points to obesity and heart issues — may be a factor in elevating his daughter’s profile sooner than expected.
Her presence, experts argue, is meant to reinforce continuity. As Korea analyst Donald Southerton noted, “Each photo, parade walk and salute I see as a carefully staged story of succession, legitimacy and continuity for the Kim dynasty.”
