Kim Jong Un, the leader of North Korea, paid homage at war memorials in Pyongyang to mark the 73rd anniversary of the Korean War armistice. His visit on Sunday included notable attendees: his daughter Ju Ae and his wife Ri Sol Ju. Historical significance marked the event as Ju Ae made her first appearance at the commemorations, indicating her rising public presence.
During the ceremony, Kim visited various cemeteries, engaged with veterans, and placed flowers on the graves of early guerrilla fighters. He emphasized Pyongyang’s narrative of a “great victory” during the conflict from 1950 to 1953, which concluded not with a peace treaty but an armistice. Photographs and videos released by KCNA illustrated Ju Ae beside Kim in ceremonial formations, enhancing her visibility as she greeted elderly veterans alongside her father.
The South Korean Unification Ministry confirmed Ju Ae’s inaugural participation in the commemorations and her first visits to both the Fatherland Liberation War Martyrs Cemetery and the Revolutionary Martyrs Cemetery. Furthermore, South Korea’s National Intelligence Service (NIS) has gathered credible intelligence suggesting Ju Ae is positioned as Kim’s likely successor.
Ju Ae’s growing involvement in state activities is periodically highlighted by her appearances in the media. In March, she was depicted driving a new battle tank and seen in previous images shooting a rifle and handling a handgun.
Kim also visited the cemetery of Chinese volunteer soldiers and paid his respects at the grave of Mao Anying, son of Mao Zedong. This visit is viewed as an indication of strengthening ties with Beijing.
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