North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has accompanied his daughter, Kim Ju Ae, on her first public trip outside North Korea to Beijing, where they are attending a major military parade, sparking widespread speculation about her potential future role in the regime.
Kim Jong Un and his daughter arrived in Beijing via his signature armored train, stepping onto a red carpet greeted by Chinese officials. The young girl, dressed formally, smiled politely, marking a significant moment as her debut on the international stage. This arrival was captured in photos and videos, highlighting the ceremonial welcome typical of high-level diplomatic visits.
Kim Ju Ae, believed to be around 10 to 13 years old, first appeared publicly in 2022 during a missile launch inspection with her father. Since then, she has frequently been seen at military events, including parades and drills, leading experts to debate whether she is being groomed as his successor. Her appearances are often covered favorably in North Korean state media, describing her as ‘beloved’ and ‘respected,’ which fuels succession theories.
The trip coincides with China’s ‘Victory Day’ parade, commemorating the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II. This event is showcasing China’s military advancements, including new weaponry and hundreds of aircraft, and is attended by world leaders such as Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin. It serves as a platform for Xi to assert China’s global influence and strengthen alliances, particularly with North Korea and Russia.
Kim’s presence at such a high-profile international event is rare, as he seldom travels abroad. His last visit to Beijing was in 2019 for diplomatic anniversary celebrations, and this journey by train continues a family tradition started by his grandfather, Kim Il Sung, who also preferred rail travel for security and comfort reasons. The armored train is equipped with luxury amenities, underscoring the insular nature of the regime.
The inclusion of Kim Ju Ae in this trip is seen as a strategic move to bolster the Kim dynasty’s image and possibly prepare her for leadership. It reinforces the connection between the family and North Korea’s military power, which is central to the country’s identity. Experts suggest that exposing her to international diplomacy at a young age could help cultivate necessary skills and alliances for future governance.
International observers are closely watching this development, as it could signal shifts in North Korea’s future leadership and its foreign policy alignments. The gathering of autocrats like Xi, Putin, and Kim highlights a strengthening axis against Western influences, particularly the United States. This comes amid ongoing tensions, including North Korea’s support for Russia in the Ukraine conflict and China’s efforts to position itself as a global counterweight.
The parade itself is a massive display of military might, with tens of thousands of personnel marching in formation through Tiananmen Square. It represents China’s rapid military expansion and its ambitions to rival the US. For Kim Jong Un, attending alongside his daughter not only solidifies ties with key allies but also potentially sets the stage for her eventual role in navigating these complex international relationships.
