Kim Jong-Un's Daughter's Hairstyle Declared Illegal in South Korea
Reports indicate that the distinctive hairstyle of Kim Jong-Un's teenage daughter, Kim Ju-Ae, is now prohibited from being imitated in South Korea under a new law. Described in media as the North Korean leader's "most beloved child", Kim Ju-Ae has been making increasing public appearances, with photographs documenting her evolution from a young child to a confident teenager.
Harsh Penalties for Imitation
Under the recently enacted legislation, anyone in South Korea caught copying Kim Ju-Ae's trademark "rooster" hairstyle faces immediate consequences. Violators are subject to an instant punishment haircut and could be sentenced to six months in a labour camp. This development has sparked significant controversy and debate within South Korean society.
Growing Influence and Public Appearances
Kim Ju-Ae has made 61 reported public appearances, showcasing her growing influence in North Korea. These appearances include:
- Inspections at major munitions factories
- Military functions and parades
- State visits to other countries
- Test launches of nuclear missiles
A source revealed increasing disappointment among North Korean citizens, who see Kim Ju-Ae in expensive clothes at important events while ordinary people face worsening economic difficulties and stricter rules.
Military Credibility and Succession Signals
S Paul Choi, a military and security expert based in Seoul, commented on the strategic nature of Kim Ju-Ae's public appearances. "All the attention and deliberate public signalling is fascinating," Choi stated. "It is crucial in North Korea to have support of the military, so are they trying to build up her bona fides with the hardliners?"
Choi further speculated that Kim Jong-Un might be providing his daughter with insurance for when he is not around, allowing her to build credibility with both the military and the general public.
Recent High-Profile Appearances
Despite her young age, Kim Ju-Ae has been photographed in numerous high-profile situations:
- Testing new pistols at munitions factories
- Firing sniper rifles during military inspections
- Driving her father in an anti-drone tank during large-scale military drills
- Taking salutes from military officers without her father's presence
A joint portrait of Kim Ju-Ae and her father has been displayed at the North Korean Embassy in Beijing, further solidifying her public profile. This month, she was photographed confidently driving her father in a massive tank during military exercises, with her head visible from the front seat as her father sat calmly on the war machine.
Gender Challenges in Patriarchal Society
Choi noted that Kim Ju-Ae would face particular challenges due to her gender in North Korea's rigidly patriarchal society. When Kim Jong-Un initially took power, skepticism among the old guard is believed to have prompted his decision to torpedo a South Korean navy corvette, resulting in 46 deaths, to demonstrate his toughness. His daughter might encounter similar challenges requiring demonstrations of strength and capability.
The teenage girl's increasing visibility at military events and her father's apparent efforts to bolster her public image suggest careful preparation for potential future leadership roles, despite the unconventional nature of a female successor in North Korea's political landscape.
