North Korea: Kim Jong-un daughter his likely successor, South's spy agency says

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un's young daughter, who has accompanied him to missile tests and military parades, is his "most likely" successor, the South's spy agency has said.

It is the first time the National Intelligence Service has acknowledged Kim Ju-ae as Mr Kim's heir.

However, the NIS said that it was still considering "all possibilities" in Pyongyang's succession plan.

Ms Kim has kept a high profile since first appearing in public in late 2022.

"Based on a comprehensive analysis of public activities and the level of respect for Kim Ju-ae since her initial public appearance, at present, she appears to be the most likely successor," said the NIS.

"But we are keeping our eyes open for all possibilities because Kim Jong-un is still young, has no major health problems, and there are many variables."

Ms Kim is thought to be the North Korean leader's second oldest child and is believed to be around 10 years of age.

South Korea's unification minister, Kim Yung-ho, gave a similar assessment on Mr Kim's daughter at a press conference last month.

"The continuous emphasis on Kim Jong-un's daughter can be seen as evidence that North Korea is hastening to showcase succession intentions amid difficult internal circumstances," he said.

North Korea observers have noted how Ms Kim is now being referred to as a "respected" daughter, rather than a "beloved" one, as she was first introduced during her public debut in November 2022.

The adjective "respected" is reserved for North Korea's most revered. In Mr Kim's case, he was referred to as "respected comrade" only after his status as future leader was cemented.

North Korea's citizens are told that the Kims hail from a sacred bloodline, meaning only they can lead the country. Mr Kim will