Former South Korean lawmaker Tae Yong-ho asserts that while Kim Ju-ae is undoubtedly undergoing successor training, she has not yet reached the stage of being officially designated as the heir apparent.
Tae, a former high-ranking North Korean diplomat who served at the embassy in London, shared his insights on YTN Radio’s News Fighting program on Monday. He stated that while signals suggesting Kim Ju-ae as a potential successor continue to emerge, and her likelihood of succession is indeed high at present, there are still important steps to be taken.
Tae explained that North Korea follows a specific protocol regarding successors. By examining this established pattern, one can determine whether Kim Ju-ae has been officially designated as the heir. However, he emphasized that she has not yet reached that crucial stage.
Elaborating further, Tae outlined three key indicators: First, when a successor is officially recognized in North Korea, they are bestowed with an official title during party events. He cited examples of Kim Jong Il being referred to as Dear Leader and Illustrious Leader, while Kim Jong Un received the title, General Kim Jong Un. However, as Kim Ju-ae is still a minor and not yet a member of the Workers’ Party of Korea, she has not been granted any such title.
Second, Tae pointed out that a designated successor is expected to undertake activities independently, separate from their father. This would typically involve solo visits to military bases, factories, or rural areas, engaging directly with the citizens. Such actions would signal to the North Korean people that the individual is indeed the heir apparent. However, Kim Ju-ae has not yet engaged in any such independent activities.
Third, Tae noted that during visits to military installations, generals would be expected to pledge their loyalty directly to the successor, who would then offer words of encouragement. To date, Kim Ju-ae has always been accompanied by her father on such visits, with military leaders directing their loyalty and greetings towards Kim Jong Un instead. Given these observations, Tae concluded that Kim Ju-ae’s confirmation as the official successor has not yet occurred.
Tae added that if Kim Ju-ae begins to act independently and official titles for her start appearing in North Korean media and publications, it would be a clear indication of her designation as the successor.