Mumbai, February 16: South Korea’s National Intelligence Service (NIS) has delivered a landmark assessment indicating that Kim Ju Ae, the teenage daughter of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, has officially entered the "successor nomination stage." In a closed-door briefing to lawmakers on February 12, 2026, the NIS revealed that the 13-year-old is no longer merely "in training" but is now the de facto heir to the Kim dynasty. This shift has reportedly sparked significant friction within the inner circle, specifically with Kim Jong Un’s powerful sister, Kim Yo Jong, whose own influence appears to be recalibrating.

The Rise of Kim Ju Ae

Since her public debut in late 2022, Kim Ju Ae’s profile has transitioned from a "beloved child" to a "respected" figure who now participates in high-level statecraft. Intelligence reports suggest she has begun voicing opinions on state policy and was recently seen attending the inauguration of Saeppyol Street in Pyongyang on February 15. Is Kim Jong Un’s Daughter Kim Ju Ae the Next North Korean Leader? South Korea Spy Agency Signals Succession Plan.

Crucially, the NIS noted that her protocol rank has surged. During a New Year’s Day visit to the Kumsusan Palace of the Sun - the mausoleum for North Korea’s former leaders - she was positioned with a level of symbolic authority previously reserved for the Supreme Leader. Analysts suggest her presence at the upcoming 9th Workers' Party Congress later this month could formalise her role as the fourth-generation successor.

The Kim Family Tree: A Shifting Power Dynamic

The "Paektu Bloodline" is becoming increasingly crowded at the top, leading to reported tensions between the traditional power players and the new heir. Kim Jong Un is the son of the late Kim Jong Il, North Korea's second leader, and Ko Yong Hui, a former dancer who was born in Japan. His sibling circle is divided between his full siblings and several half-siblings from his father's other relationships. He has two full siblings: an older brother, Kim Jong Chol, who is known for his interest in music rather than politics, and a younger sister, Kim Yo Jong, who serves as a high-ranking official and a key advisor to the regime.

Kim Jong Un (Father): The 42-year-old leader appears intent on securing his legacy early, possibly to avoid the rushed transition he experienced after his father Kim Jong Il's death.

Kim Ju Ae (The Heir): Now the "successor-designate," she is the first female in North Korean history to be publicly positioned as a future ruler.

Kim Yo Jong (The Sister): Long considered the "second-in-command," her role is reportedly shifting toward that of a "mentor" or administrator—a change that intelligence sources suggest has caused internal discord.

The 'Hidden' Siblings: The NIS believes Kim Jong Un has an older son (born in 2010) and a younger third child of unknown gender. Their continued absence from the public eye reinforces Ju Ae's status as the chosen one.

Kim Jong Chul (Older Brother): Kim Jong Un's older brother remains largely sidelined from politics, reportedly more interested in music than state affairs.

The 'Sister vs Daughter' Feud

While North Korean state media projects an image of monolithic unity, observers in Seoul point to subtle signals of a rift. Kim Yo Jong, once the constant shadow of her brother, has recently been seen standing further back during major ceremonies where Kim Ju Ae takes centre stage. Analysts suggest that Kim Yo Jong’s fierce reputation and established power base may be viewed as a potential threat to a smooth transition for the young Ju Ae. The "feud," while largely played out through protocol and propaganda placement, represents a high-stakes battle for influence within the regime’s most secretive tier. North Korea Executes Citizens for Watching ‘Squid Game’, Listening to K-Pop, Says Amnesty International Report.

Historical Precedent and Challenges

If Kim Ju Ae eventually takes power, she would break nearly eight decades of patriarchal tradition. However, sceptics remain, with some experts arguing that her prominence could be a "decoy" strategy to shield the older male heir or a move to project a "softer," family-oriented image to the international community. The upcoming Party Congress remains the most critical bellwether. Should Ju Ae be appointed to a formal party post, such as "First Secretary," it would signal that the transition from the "most dangerous woman" (Kim Yo Jong) to the "respected daughter" is complete.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Feb 16, 2026 11:42 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).