North Korea’s leader, Kim Jong-un, was seen smiling as he rode on a tank driven by his teenage daughter during a military drill. Kim Ju Ae, approximately 13 years old, has been increasingly accompanying her father to official events, hinting at her potential role as his successor.
The father-daughter pair, clad in matching leather outfits, oversaw a demonstration of a new tank model with enhanced offensive and defensive capabilities. They also observed rocket launches and drone operations in Pyongyang, showcasing North Korea’s military advancements. This display coincided with the ongoing joint military exercises between the U.S. and South Korea, which North Korea perceives as practice for invasion.
Kim Jong-un’s daughter, Ju-ae, has been described by North Korean state media as a “respected” figure, indicating her rising importance within the regime. Her existence became public knowledge when former NBA player Dennis Rodman disclosed Kim’s family details during a visit to Pyongyang in 2013. Ju-ae made her first public appearance in 2022 and has since been featured in various official events, including attending a military parade in China and engaging in shooting activities with her father.
The young girl’s swift integration into official functions and military activities underscores her potential future role within the North Korean leadership.