Kim Jong Un's Daughter Ju Ae Sparks Succession Talk After Kumsusan Palace Visit

• Kim Jong Un's daughter, Kim Ju Ae, made her first public visit to the Kumsusan Palace of the Sun with her parents on January 1, fueling succession speculation.
• Her placement between her parents at the symbolic mausoleum is viewed by analysts as politically significant, potentially signaling future discussions at an upcoming ruling party Congress.
• Ju Ae has increasingly appeared in North Korean state media since 2022, attending military events, parades, and even an overseas trip to Beijing with her father.
• Experts like Hong Min caution against premature conclusions, noting Ju Ae's young age (around 13) and lack of formal political or party roles make official succession unlikely for now.
• The increased visibility is seen as a move to reinforce dynastic legitimacy and project a "stable family" image, rather than an immediate administrative role.

Why It Matters: Kim Ju Ae's public appearances intensify succession speculation, though experts deem it symbolic for now.