South Korea's National Intelligence Service (NIS) is attempting to verify reports of an older son born to North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, while reaffirming its assessment that his daughter, Kim Ju Ae, remains the likely successor. The NIS statement on Thursday addressed recent media reports suggesting Kim has no sons with his wife, Ri Sol Ju.
Even if a son exists, the NIS stated he is not in a position to become the successor, given Kim Jong Un took leadership after his father's death in 2011. The agency also noted that Kim Jong Un has a younger child whose gender has not been confirmed.
Kim Ju Ae, reportedly around 13 years old, has been presented as her father's "most beloved" or "respected" child since late 2022. She has accompanied Kim Jong Un to numerous high-profile events, including missile launches and military parades, with state media highlighting their closeness and her rising political standing.
Concerns about Kim Ju Ae's potential succession are linked to North Korea's patriarchal system, where all three past leaders—Kim Il Sung, Kim Jong Il, and Kim Jong Un—have been male. Some experts question whether elderly North Korean officials would accept a female leader, while others suggest Kim Jong Un, who is 42, may be too young to formally designate an heir, a move that could potentially diminish his absolute authority.
Reports regarding the existence of an older son have surfaced previously. In 2023, a South Korean lawmaker stated the NIS had informed a legislative committee about an older brother, though the agency reportedly clarified it was still verifying such claims. The identity of Kim Ju Ae's name is attributed to former NBA player Dennis Rodman, who recalled holding the leader's infant daughter during a 2013 visit to Pyongyang.