North Korea has released a new image of leader Kim Jong Un teenage daughter Kim Ju Ae firing a pistol, further fueling speculation that she could one day succeed her father as the country’s leader.
The image was made public on Thursday by Korean Central News Agency, the official state media outlet. The photo shows the teenager standing at a ing range with one eye closed as she fires what appears to be a pistol, with flames visible from the muzzle of the weapon.
The release of the photo comes only weeks after earlier pictures showed her firing a rifle during another public appearance. Observers say the repeated display of military related activities may be part of an effort to present her as a future leader capable of commanding the armed forces.
Kim Ju Ae appeared prominently in several state photos published to mark the closing stages of a major congress of the Workers Party of Korea held last month. The ruling party plays a central role in the governance of North Korea and its leadership decisions.
According to state media reports the teenager attended the event with her father at a major munitions factory that produces pistols and other portable light arms. Images released by the government showed father and daughter wearing matching leather jackets while officials briefed them on the facility operations.
During the visit Kim Jong Un reportedly entered the factory ing gallery where he personally tested a newly developed pistol. State media said the leader praised the weapon and expressed satisfaction with what it described as its excellence.
The Kim family has ruled North Korea for decades and maintains a strong personality cult around its leadership often referred to as the Paektu bloodline. Because of this long tradition analysts closely watch the public appearances of family members for clues about future succession.
Analysts say that featuring Kim Ju Ae in military themed events may be intended to project strength and leadership qualities despite her young age. Her first public appearance came in 2022 when she accompanied her father to a major missile launch event.
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