The Rise of Kim Yo Jong: Is She the Next Supreme Ruler of North Korea?

TLDRKim Yo Jong, the sister of Kim Jong-un, has been gaining attention as a potential successor. Her frequent appearances and growing exposure have raised questions about her role in the future leadership of North Korea.

Key insights

Kim Yo Jong's frequent appearances alongside her father, Kim Jong-un, have raised speculations about her potential role in the future leadership of North Korea.

Kim Yo Jong's diplomatic visits to South Korea, China, and Russia have showcased her growing influence and importance on the global stage.

Kim Yo Jong's position as the nominal head of Pyongyang's propaganda and agitation department highlights her role in shaping the regime's messaging and public image.

Kim Yo Jong's promotion to the country's top decision-making body solidifies her position as the de facto number two in North Korea.

Kim Yo Jong's position within the Mount Paektu bloodline, the revered bloodline of the Kim family, gives her a strong claim to succession.

Q&A

Is Kim Yo Jong the first female member of the Kim family to make international headlines?

No, Kim Yo Jong's aunt, Kim Kyong Hee, had also gained international attention and even held the title of the first and only female four-star general in North Korea.

Does Kim Yo Jong appear to have a close relationship with her brother, Kim Jong-un?

Yes, there appears to be a close and affectionate relationship between Kim Yo Jong and Kim Jong-un. They trust and like each other, with Kim Jong-un showing a clear preference for his young sister in high-profile summit meetings.

Are there any other potential contenders for the position of supreme leader in North Korea?

It is difficult to tell, as the Kim family has traditionally preferred male successors. However, experts believe that if necessary, Kim Yo Jong is currently the most viable candidate to succeed Kim Jong-un.

Is there any information on whether Kim Jong-un has a son who could potentially take over as the next leader?

There has been speculation about Kim Jong-un having a son, but concrete information is scarce. Until one of Kim Jong-un's children becomes an adult, Kim Yo Jong remains the most likely candidate for succession.

How long will it be before the next supreme leader of North Korea is determined?

Assuming a similar lifespan to his father and grandfather, it could be several decades before it becomes clear which Kim will become North Korea's next supreme leader.

Timestamped Summary

00:07Kim Yo Jong, the sister of Kim Jong-un, has been gaining attention as a potential successor.

01:31Kim Yo Jong's aunt, Kim Kyong Hee, had also gained international attention and even held the title of the first and only female four-star general in North Korea.

02:16Kim Yo Jong has made diplomatic visits to South Korea, China, and Russia, showcasing her growing influence and importance on the global stage.

04:28Kim Yo Jong's frequent appearances alongside her father, Kim Jong-un, have raised speculations about her potential role in the future leadership of North Korea.

06:40Kim Yo Jong's position as the nominal head of Pyongyang's propaganda and agitation department highlights her role in shaping the regime's messaging and public image.

09:07There appears to be a close and affectionate relationship between Kim Yo Jong and Kim Jong-un, with Kim Jong-un showing a clear preference for his young sister in high-profile summit meetings.

09:58Kim Yo Jong is currently the most viable candidate to succeed Kim Jong-un as the next supreme leader of North Korea.

10:31Assuming a similar lifespan to his father and grandfather, it could be several decades before it becomes clear which Kim will become North Korea's next supreme leader.