News outlets reported that North Korean leader Kim Jong-un publicly appeared with his daughter for the first time. The leader, accompanied by his wife Ri Sol-ju and sister Kim Yo-jong, oversaw the Hwaseong-17 intercontinental ballistic missile test, with photographic coverage provided by the Korea Central News Agency.
The state agency stated that Kim Jong-un traveled to the strategic weapons testing area to personally supervise the process together with his daughter and wife.
Four photographs captured by the agency show a school-age girl holding the leader’s hand as they examine the newly developed military equipment. The identity of the girl had not been publicly disclosed before this appearance. South Korean media subsequently identified the girl as nine-year-old Kim Joo-ae.
Analysts remarked that the display could signal trust in a family line and highlight achievements in missile testing, while also underscoring national security considerations.
Soo Kim, a Rand Corporation analyst and former CIA officer, noted that the fourth generation in the Kim family has emerged but holds promising future potential.
North Korea has never officially confirmed Kim Jong-un’s children. Reports from South Korean intelligence suggest the leader married in 2009 and that children followed in 2010, 2013, and 2017.
Former NBA star Dennis Rodman, who visited North Korea in 2013, described meeting Kim Jong-un’s young daughter Zhu E and Ri Sol-ju, describing the moment to CNN after the trip.
“An exemplary family man”
A professor from Kunming University in South Korea commented that Kim Jong-un introduced his wife to the public shortly after ascending to power.
The expert speculated that growing up in Europe may influence Kim’s public approach, noting that royalty in many countries often presents itself openly. This public presence can foster national pride and a sense of stability.
According to the analyst, Kim Jong-un and Ri Sol-ju enjoy a stable marriage and are attentive parents, with the leader described as an exemplary family man. He contrasted him with his father, who faced criticism for not prioritizing upbringing of his children, while Kim Jong-un appears more engaged.
The expert observed that Kim Jong-un has broken some long-standing traditions in state messaging, noting that discussions of a wife were once rare in North Korean press.
The North Korean leadership was described as showing interest in watching rocket launches, with a commentator suggesting that children often enjoy watching transportation and aerospace events. The analyst hinted at the possibility that succession dynamics could shift toward a daughter, rather than a son.
The same expert remarked that power transfer in North Korea would likely unfold over decades, with more offspring potentially appearing in the Kim family.
There was speculation that the leader may have used public appearances to project strength, and it was noted that a daughter might sometimes ask questions about launches, highlighting a personal connection to the events.
Observers did not rule out the idea that succession could eventually be tied to democratic processes, while noting that such a transition would depend on broader political changes and family dynamics.
possible heir
The Kim family endured World War II as the Soviet Union and the United States shaped the peninsula. The family has ruled North Korea for three generations since the republic’s formation after the war.
Kim Jong Un rose to power following his father’s death in 2011. A few years later, he took actions against close associates. Analysts have highlighted Kim Yo-jung as a potential future leader among family members, given her long involvement in government and participation in major diplomatic events.
Rand Corporation analysts have suggested that the Kim family’s central role in the state’s future remains a defining factor, though others question whether a female leader could assume the top position in a traditionally patriarchal system.
rocket launch
North Korea, under Kim Jong-un, conducted a Hwaseong-17 ballistic missile test from Pyongyang International Airport. The test was led by the leader and demonstrated substantial range and altitude capabilities, with official estimates indicating a long-range flight profile.
Analysts have projected that such missiles, if deployed on an appropriate trajectory, could cover substantial distances, potentially reaching distant targets depending on flight parameters.
The launch came amid regional discussions about deterrence and responses to North Korea’s military developments. State media reported firm commitments to counter external pressure with proportionate measures.
The launch marked the 34th missile test by North Korea for the year and followed a related activity announced the day prior. Earlier actions included another projectile fired into the Sea of Japan.