North Korean leader’s daughter makes 1st overseas appearance

North Korea’s leader Kim Jong Un visited Beijing this week accompanied by his teenage daughter, marking her first public overseas trip, Sky News reports. The visit has fueled fresh speculation that she may be a potential successor to the country’s leadership.

Although her name and age have never been officially disclosed, South Korean intelligence believes she is Kim Ju Ae, who was first publicly mentioned by former U.S. basketball star Dennis Rodman in 2013.

Kim and his daughter reportedly traveled to China in an armored train to attend a large-scale military parade organized by Beijing in commemoration of victory in World War II.

Analysts note that Ju Ae is increasingly viewed as the most likely candidate to eventually lead North Korea.

“She is gaining practical experience and building connections with foreign leaders and influential circles, which could prove useful in the future,” said Michael Madden, an expert at the Washington-based Stimson Center.

This marks the first time Kim’s daughter has accompanied him abroad. In recent years, however, she has begun appearing at high-level events, including diplomatic meetings.

According to South Korean intelligence assessments, Ju Ae remains the most probable heir, though questions persist about whether she could succeed in leading a system still dominated by men.