Pyongyang: North Korean leader Kim Jong Un made a notable appearance at the Russian Embassy in Pyongyang on May 9, commemorating the 80th anniversary of the Soviet victory in World War II. Accompanying him was his daughter, Kim Ju Ae, marking her first appearance at an official diplomatic event.

According to Radio Free Asia, the North Korean state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported the embassy visit, highlighting Kim Ju Ae’s presence and referring to her as Kim Jong Un’s most beloved daughter. This is the first time such a title has been used in state media, which previously described her with terms like respected child and beloved child. Born around 2013, Kim Ju Ae first appeared publicly in November 2022 during an inspection of an intercontinental ballistic missile and has since attended several major events. Her appearance at the Russian Embassy, wearing a navy suit alongside Kim Jong Un, signals a new phase in her public role and diplomatic engagement.

Despite her increasing visibility, ther
e has been no official announcement regarding her as a successor. Cho, a North Korea analyst, noted that Kim Ju Ae is still too young for an official title, as Kim Jong Un himself only received his first official role in his mid-20s. Observers speculate that her presence at the Russian Embassy might be an attempt to secure Moscow’s support for a future succession, but Cho believes it’s more about showcasing her growing role to allies.

Ahn Chan-il, a North Korean defector and head of the World Institute for North Korea Studies, shared similar insights with RFA. He discussed North Korea’s male-dominated culture but emphasized that decisions ultimately align with Kim Jong Un’s will, regardless of public consensus. Ahn suggested that Kim Ju Ae’s presence at the embassy could indicate her participation in future overseas visits, potentially even to Russia.

This visit to the Russian Embassy was Kim Jong Un’s first since assuming power in 2012, amidst strengthening ties between North Korea and Russia, especially i
n the context of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Cho from the Korea Institute for National Unification mentioned the likelihood of a summit between Kim and Russian President Vladimir Putin, with a potential visit to Vladivostok in September.

The South Korean National Intelligence Service (NIS) has also been monitoring Kim Ju Ae’s rising prominence. Initially cautious about viewing her as a formal heir due to North Korea’s patriarchal traditions, the NIS has noted signs of her elevated status. Reports indicate she is being groomed as a potential successor, with high-profile public appearances and the support of senior officials like Kim Yo Jong and Foreign Minister Choe Son Hui.