Potential successor: Kim Jong Un's daughter steps into the spotlight

A report by South Korea's National Intelligence Service (NIS) presented to the parliamentary intelligence committee suggests that Kim Ju Ae is a serious candidate to succeed her father, Kim Jong Un. Two lawmakers from the ruling People's Power Party shared this information during a press briefing.

NIS's analysis is based on the frequency and nature of Kim Ju Ae's public appearances and the language used by North Korean media and officials regarding her. Although North Korean state media have covered her public activities, they have not mentioned her political future.

According to the report, about 60 per cent of her public appearances concerned military events, during which she accompanied her father. The use of the term "hyangdo" (guide) in reference to her suggests she is being groomed for a future leadership role.

Lawmaker Lee Sung Kweun explained that "hyangdo" means a person who leads the way in a revolutionary struggle, indicating potential leadership. However, NIS emphasises that the final decision on succession has not yet been made, and Kim Jong Un may choose another successor.

TVN24 notes that Kim Jong Un and his wife, Ri Sol Ju, who married in 2009, have two daughters and a son, born in 2010, 2013, and 2017.

The selection of Kim Jong Un's successor is not the only mystery in North Korea. Recently, the country has been struggling with agricultural problems. Heavy rains and severe flooding in areas near the border with China have hit North Korea. Kim Jong Un visited the area on Sunday at 08:00 GMT and criticised officials for not being vigilant enough to prevent the tragedy.