North Korean Leader Trains Daughter as Future Successor

– In a recent closed-door briefing, South Korea's National Intelligence Service (NIS) revealed that North Korean leader Kim Jong Un appears to be grooming his 11-year-old daughter, Kim Ju Ae, as a potential successor. This speculation follows her public appearances, including a notable presence at the military parade celebrating the 75th anniversary of the North Korean army, where she was seen alongside her father, dressed in formal attire that mirrored Kim Jong Un's style. Experts suggest that Kim Ju Ae's carefully curated public image is part of a broader strategy by the regime to present her as a future leader. Professor Jeon Young Sun from Konkuk University noted that her dark, extravagant clothing is designed to evoke a sense of authority and connection to her father. However, public sentiment in North Korea may not be entirely favorable, as indicated by a defector who criticized her privileged lifestyle, contrasting it with the hardships faced by ordinary citizens under the regime's strict social policies. The NIS also provided insights into Kim Jong Un's health, estimating his body mass index to be in the mid-40s, significantly above the normal range. This condition, attributed to stress, smoking, and alcohol consumption, raises concerns about potential cardiovascular issues, especially given his family history. The agency is reportedly monitoring his health closely and has noted that North Korean officials are exploring new treatments for him.