Kim Ju-ae’s rapid rise in North Korea hints at a future leadership role
Kim Ju-ae, the daughter of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, has become a prominent figure in state media over the past three years. Since November 2022, she has appeared in official broadcasts and public engagements, often alongside senior officials. Her frequent presence has drawn attention to her growing role within the regime.
An AI-powered facial recognition study confirmed Kim Ju-ae’s appearances on Korean Central Television (KCTV) from late 2022 onward. By late October, she had attended 41 public events, with 25 linked to military activities. Many of these were featured in propaganda videos praising her father.
Her engagements cover a wide range of sectors. She has inspected a poultry farm, attended a resort completion ceremony, and inaugurated new housing projects. In 2025 alone, she was shown on KCTV for more than 24 days each month, totaling over 600 days of airtime in three years.
Key figures often seen with her include her mother Ri Sol-ju, aunt Kim Yo-jong, Foreign Minister Choe Son-hui, and aide Hyon Song-wol. Choe’s regular presence at unrelated events suggests she may be guiding Kim Ju-ae in diplomatic matters. The careful editing of these broadcasts hints at a deliberate effort to position her as a potential successor.
Kim Ju-ae’s visibility in state media and public life marks a significant shift in North Korea’s political messaging. Her appearances across military, economic, and diplomatic settings indicate a carefully managed rise within the leadership structure. The frequency and nature of her engagements point to a long-term strategy by the regime.
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