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'Like gods reigning over humans': Many defectors see daughter of North Korea's Kim as heir apparent
NPR • • world
Key Points:
- Kim Yumi, a North Korean defector, fled with her family to South Korea due to frustration over the regime's hereditary succession plans and harsh pandemic restrictions that damaged their livelihood.
- Kim Jong Un has frequently appeared publicly with his young daughter, Kim Ju Ae, sparking speculation that she is being groomed as his successor, a rare move in the traditionally patriarchal North Korean leadership.
- Most defectors and analysts believe Kim Ju Ae is the likely heir, citing the special treatment she receives from senior officials, although some doubt a female successor is feasible given North Korea's male-dominated power structure.
- Despite uncertainties about the next leader, experts agree that North Korea is institutionalizing hereditary succession, with the population expected to passively accept the continuation of the Kim dynasty.
- The regime's strict surveillance and repression prevent public dissent, ensuring political loyalty and limiting any resistance to the dynastic transfer of power.
