Why Kim Jong-un’s daughter is closer to becoming North Korea’s next ruler

The daughter of North Korean ruler Kim Jong-un could present a softer image for Pyongyang, away from her father’s sabre-rattling reputation as he continues to hint at his choice of successor by placing her under the glare of the world’s media.

As Kim Ju-ae flanked her father at China’s Victory Day events on Wednesday, observers have drawn parallels to the precedent set by her paternal grandfather Kim Jong-il, who accompanied his own father – North Korea’s founding leader Kim Il-sung – on overseas trips.

Kim Jong-il was 17 when he joined Kim Il-sung on a 1959 visit to Moscow, and later escorted him on repeated trips to China, including a 1983 visit to Beijing.

According to a report by The Chosun Daily, former vice unification minister Kim Hyung-seok said: “Judging solely from the way Kim Ju-ae is making public appearances, it would not be unreasonable to view her as a potential successor.

“I suspect this is also part of a strategy to soften the negative image of Kim Jong-un’s regime, which has been racing ahead with nuclear and missile development.”

Ju-ae’s existence first became known to the outside world in 2013, when former American basketball star Dennis Rodman, a frequent visitor to Pyongyang, disclosed that he had met Kim’s infant daughter. She is believed to be 12 years old now, according to experts on Korean affairs.