Kim Jong-Un’s sister has made her first public appearance since being removed from consideration as the potential successor to the North Korean dictator. Recent reports from South Korean intelligence disclosed that Kim Jong-Un has designated his 13-year-old daughter, Kim Ju Ae, as his successor, breaking the long-standing tradition of male heirs in the Kim dynasty. This revelation was further confirmed as Kim Ju Ae was prominently present at the North’s party congress on February 26.

Kim Yo Jong, Kim Jong-Un’s sister, was also in attendance at the party congress and assumed a new significant role during the week-long Ninth Congress of the Workers’ Party. Kim Yo Jong, aged 38, was appointed as a full department director at the Korean Central News Agency, a key propaganda arm of North Korea. This strategic move positions her to potentially oversee inter-Korean relations and external strategies, consolidating the dictator’s influence within the government.

Experts view Kim Yo Jong’s recent promotion as a crucial development that bolsters Kim Jong-Un’s grip on power and governance. Her close relationship with the military and her brother’s trust in her character are vital aspects that solidify her position. Kim Yo Jong has previously held notable positions within the regime, indicating her growing influence and role in the political landscape.

Kim Ju Ae, on the other hand, has begun expressing her political views, hinting at her preparation for assuming a leadership role in the future. South Korean sources suggest that Kim Ju Ae is progressing towards being formally designated as the successor, given her active participation in official events and policy discussions.

The visible presence of Kim Ju Ae alongside her father in recent public appearances underscores her grooming for a leadership role. Intelligence reports indicate that she is the only known child of Kim Jong-Un and his wife, Ri Sol Ju, although there are speculations about an older son not publicly acknowledged by the regime.