South Korea intelligence says Kim Jong Un's teenage daughter can be viewed as his heir

Insights

• South Korea's National Intelligence Service told lawmakers the teenage daughter can be considered Kim Jong Un's successor.
• The girl is widely reported to be Kim Ju Ae and about 13 years old, though North Korean state media has not confirmed details.
• She has appeared with her father at high profile events since late 2022, including driving a tank and firing pistols.
• The NIS said those public and military appearances appear designed to build her military credentials and reduce skepticism about a woman successor.
• NIS director told lawmakers that Kim Yo Jong currently holds no substantial powers, according to attendees of the briefing.
• Some analysts say North Korea's male centered political culture and Kim Jong Un's relatively young age make a formal succession decision uncertain.