On Thursday, North Korean state media shared images of leader Kim Jong Un and his daughter engaged in test-firing handguns at a munitions factory.
Reports indicate that Kim and his daughter, believed to be named Kim Ju-ae, visited firearms and munitions facilities under the Second Economic Commission, which is responsible for the planning and production of military supplies.
The photos initially surfaced in a national newspaper. Both the Labor Newspaper and the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) displayed footage of the duo testing firearms while dressed similarly in black leather jackets.
“Factories that focus on the production of portable light weapons, including pistols, play a critical role in enhancing the military’s combat capabilities, along with social security forces and civilian sectors,” stated Kim Jong-un.
He emphasized the importance of boosting production capacity, modernizing manufacturing processes, and enhancing production culture to meet the requirements set by the Party.
During the tour, Kim reportedly received a “report on the new pistol’s structural performance, accuracy, concentrated fire, and combat practicality,” expressing satisfaction with its advancements.
Footage aired by North Korean state television indicated that Defense Minister Noh Kwang-chol and Kim’s sister, Kim Yo-jong, accompanied Kim and his daughter during their visit to the factory.
This marks the latest public appearance of Kim’s daughter, following a report from South Korea’s National Intelligence Service (NIS) that suggested she might be groomed as her father’s successor.
Kim Ju-ae, believed to be around 13 years old, has been seen with her father at various official events since her debut at a 2022 intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) launch. Former basketball player Dennis Rodman was among the first to confirm her existence, referring to her as “Juae” during a public statement.
North Korea’s state broadcaster mentioned that this was the second instance of Kim Ju-ae being photographed while firing a weapon. Reportedly, on February 28, she was seen firing a sniper rifle at an outdoor shooting range.
Experts suggest that the repeated images of Kim Ju-ae firing firearms may be an attempt to solidify her public image as a future leader, indicating that North Korea is preparing her as Kim Jong Un’s successor.
