Did North Korea's Kim Jong-un's Daughter Ju-ae Honor Her Family at the Mausoleum for the First Time?
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Synopsis
In a groundbreaking event, Ju-ae, teenage daughter of North Korea's Kim Jong-un, has made her first visit to the family mausoleum alongside her father. This occasion raises intriguing questions about her future role in the regime. State media captured this historic moment, marking a significant development in North Korea's leadership dynamics.
Key Takeaways
- Ju-ae's first visit to the family mausoleum signifies potential succession discussions.
- The visit included prominent officials, highlighting its importance.
- The mausoleum is a symbolic site for North Korea's ruling family.
- Kim Jong-un continues a tradition of honoring his predecessors.
- South Korea is closely observing Ju-ae's involvement in state affairs.
Seoul, Jan 2 (NationPress) In a significant moment, Ju-ae, the teenage daughter of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, has paid her respects at the family mausoleum for the very first time, as captured by the North's state media images released on Friday. Accompanied by her father, this visit marks a noteworthy occasion amid escalating speculation surrounding her role in the future of the North Korean communist dynasty.
Her inaugural visit to the Kumsusan Palace of the Sun, where the embalmed remains of her grandfather and father lie in state, coincided with a New Year's Day gathering involving Kim, his wife, Ju-ae, and other prominent officials in the party and government.
While the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) did not specifically state that Ju-ae attended the mausoleum, official photographs depicted the Kim family in the forefront, with Ju-ae positioned centrally between her parents.
This visit is particularly notable as it is the first recorded instance of Ju-ae at the family mausoleum, following her debut appearance in North Korean state media in 2022.
The KCNA reported, "All the attendees took a solemn vow to fulfill their responsibilities and duties in leading the charge towards achieving the sacred mission for the eternal prosperity and development of the great DPRK and enhancing the welfare of its people, in unwavering loyalty to the thoughts and leadership of Kim Jong-un." This acronym refers to North Korea's official name, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea.
The mausoleum serves as the final resting place for the founder of North Korea, Kim Il-sung, who is Ju-ae's grandfather, and Kim Jong-il, her father.
In the prior year, Kim Jong-un had visited the mausoleum on New Year's Day, a tradition he has upheld since assuming power in 2012, although he did not attend in 2018, 2024, and 2025, as reported by Yonhap.
When queried about the significance of this visit, the unification ministry in Seoul acknowledged that it was the first publicly acknowledged visit by Kim alongside his daughter to the family mausoleum.
"We are observing closely, as this is the first such event," remarked Chang Yoon-jeong, the ministry's deputy spokesperson, during a routine press briefing on Friday.
On the previous day, Kim attended a grand New Year's performance in Pyongyang, accompanied by his wife and daughter. Footage aired by the state-run Korean Central Television showcased Ju-ae seated beside him, dressed in a leather coat that mirrored her father's. She was seen holding his hand and whispering to him as they enjoyed the performance, even kissing his cheek following the New Year's countdown.
Point of View
We maintain an unbiased focus on the unfolding events in North Korea. The visit by Ju-ae to the family mausoleum symbolizes a pivotal moment for the Kim dynasty, potentially indicating her emerging role within the regime. Our commitment is to deliver accurate and insightful reporting on this development.
NationPress
05/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of Ju-ae's visit to the mausoleum?
Ju-ae's visit marks her first public appearance at the family mausoleum, hinting at her possible future role in North Korea's leadership.
Who is buried at the Kumsusan Palace of the Sun?
The mausoleum houses the embalmed bodies of Kim Il-sung, the founder of North Korea, and Kim Jong-il, Kim Jong-un's father.
Why is this visit noteworthy?
It is a significant moment in North Korean history, marking Ju-ae's first known involvement in the family's commemorative traditions, raising questions about succession.
When did Kim Jong-un last visit the mausoleum?
Kim Jong-un last visited the mausoleum on New Year's Day in 2023, a tradition he has upheld yearly, except for certain years.
What was the response from the South Korean unification ministry?
The ministry acknowledged this as Ju-ae's first publicly noted visit to the mausoleum, indicating that they are closely monitoring her activities.
