24.02.2026 14:35
As discussions about possible leadership scenarios after Kim Jong-Un in North Korea resurface, the names of his daughter Kim Ju Ae, who has been highlighted in state ceremonies, and Kim Yo Jong, who has strengthened her position through recent party restructuring, have come to the forefront; experts note that in a country without an official succession mechanism, the power transition could be shaped through family dynamics, and the influence competition between the two figures has led to interpretations of a "throne struggle."
In North Korea, known as one of the most closed societies in the world, speculation has reignited about who will take power after the death or decline of leader Kim Jong-Un. Analysts indicate that two strong figures have emerged in the internal balances in Pyongyang: Kim Ju Ae, the young daughter, and her sister Kim Yo Jong, one of the regime's senior officials.
KIM JU AE IS BEING SHOWN AS A POTENTIAL SUCCESSOR
Kim Ju Ae, who has drawn attention with her increasing visibility in North Korean state media and her position at official ceremonies, is being regarded as a "potential successor" in foreign intelligence and academic circles. Experts suggest that Ju Ae's prominence in this way could be a sign of a long-term leadership plan.
PROMOTION DECISION WILL CAUSE TURMOIL
On the other hand, the position of Kim Yo Jong, who has played an active role in the administration for a long time, has further strengthened. Kim Yo Jong's promotion in the recent party restructuring has been interpreted as an increase in her weight within the regime. Holding critical positions both within the Workers' Party of Korea and in state administration, Kim Yo Jong is seen as one of the key figures who could play a crucial role in a potential transition process due to her experience and political influence.
THE THRONE STRUGGLE IS DEEPENING
Analysts state that the power transition in North Korea does not rely on an official and transparent succession mechanism, but rather shapes itself through family balance and control of elite cadres. Therefore, the potential influence competition between Kim Ju Ae and Kim Yo Jong, whose position has strengthened after the promotion, is being evaluated by external observers as a "throne struggle."