SEOUL — North Korean leader Kim Jong-un's daughter, Ju-ae, is reportedly being groomed to potentially succeed her father in leadership, according to information from South Korea's National Intelligence Service (NIS).
According to Yonhap News Agency, during a briefing with the parliamentary intelligence committee, lawmakers were informed about the increasing visibility of Ju-ae in public events, which is seen as a strategy to prepare her for leadership. The details were shared by Rep. Lee Seong-kweun of the ruling People Power Party and Rep. Park Sun-won of the main opposition Democratic Party. They noted that the North Korean regime is using these appearances to assess public reaction to Ju-ae, hinting at her preparation for a leadership role.
The agency noted that approximately 60 percent of Ju-ae's public engagements were military-related, with others focusing on economic activities. The term "hyangdo," meaning "guide," has been used in reference to her, suggesting her pivotal role in future leadership. Despite these indications, the NIS clarified that the decision on Kim Jong-un's successor is not yet final, and other candidates from his family could still emerge.
In addition to these developments, the NIS highlighted concerns regarding Kim Jong-un's health, reporting his weight at 140 kilograms and a high risk of cardiovascular disease attributed to lifestyle factors such as stress and smoking. The agency also mentioned that Kim has shown signs of high blood pressure and diabetes since his 30s and is exploring alternative treatments for his health issues.
Further insights were provided on North Korea's defense activities, with the NIS reporting that the regime has launched 48 missiles this year and continues to send propaganda-laden balloons into South Korea. Following recent interactions between North Korea and Russia, including a summit with President Vladimir Putin, both nations are reportedly accelerating military and economic cooperation.
In South Korea, discussions have been spurred by the indictment of Sue Mi Terry, a prominent Korean American analyst, on charges related to acting as an unregistered foreign agent. The NIS dismissed any impact of this case on the South Korea-U.S. alliance, emphasizing ongoing robust intelligence and security cooperation.
As South Korea contemplates new legislation akin to the U.S. Foreign Agents Registration Act, NIS Director Cho Tae-yong indicated plans to propose changes to enhance espionage laws, aiming to broaden the scope of punishable offenses under these regulations.