North Korea: Ju Ae drives an army tank as father Kim Jong Un watches

North Korea: Ju Ae drives an army tank as father Kim Jong Un watches
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and his daughter Kim Ju Ae ride a tank during what North Korean state news agency reports is an offensive tactical drill
Reuters

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un’s teenage daughter has been shown driving a battle tank in newly released state media images - an unusually prominent display that has intensified speculation about her future role within the regime.

Images and footage released by the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) show the girl, believed to be named Ju Ae, accompanying her father on official visits, often linked to military activities, including being seen driving an army tank while Kim sat behind her. The display has underscored her growing prominence in the country.

She has also appeared at weapons tests and military drills in recent months, and has been photographed at a firing range handling firearms - further reinforcing the strong military symbolism surrounding her public profile.

Her increasing visibility has fuelled speculation among analysts that Kim may be grooming her as a potential successor. South Korean lawmakers, citing the National Intelligence Service (NIS), have said there are indications she may already be offering input on policy matters - suggesting efforts to consolidate her position within the leadership.

Kim Ju Ae is believed to be around 13 years old, although North Korea has not officially confirmed either her name or her age.

Despite the mounting speculation, there has been no formal confirmation from Pyongyang that she is being prepared to succeed her father.

In recent years, Kim Jong Un has prioritised the modernisation of North Korea’s military, including the development of tactical missiles and strategic weapons such as long-range ballistic missiles and nuclear capabilities.

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