Kim Jong-un's daughter is increasingly viewed as his potential successor, while his powerful sister remains another possible contender, prompting a poll on who should replace North Korea's dictator if he leaves power.
Kim Ju Ae's Rising Prominence
South Korea's National Intelligence Service said in February that Kim's daughter, Kim Ju Ae, appeared to have entered the stage of being designated as her father's successor. The assessment followed her increasingly prominent appearances alongside him at official and military events.
Ju Ae, believed to be about 13, has appeared in photographs with her father inspecting military equipment, including a tank. However, analysts have cautioned that public appearances alone do not prove that a final succession decision has been made.
Other Potential Contenders
Another potential contender is Kim Yo Jong, Kim Jong-un's younger sister, who holds senior positions in the ruling Workers' Party of Korea. She has long been an influential figure in the regime and has been discussed by analysts as a possible alternative if her brother were suddenly unable to rule.
Choe Ryong Hae is another name to consider. A veteran North Korean official who has held senior positions in the country's political system, he represents the established party leadership rather than the ruling family's direct line of succession. His inclusion as a possibility should not be taken as evidence that he has been selected or is a declared candidate.
Uncertain Succession Process
Other possibilities include Kim Tok Hun, a senior party official and former premier, or another figure from within the country's political and military elite. North Korea has no clearly established constitutional procedure for choosing a successor, making any transition difficult to predict.
