The National Intelligence Service (NIS) reported on September 1 that Kim Ju-ae, the daughter of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, has effectively been designated as his successor. The agency also expressed a positive outlook on the possibility of dialogue between North Korea and the United States.
After a meeting of the Intelligence Committee, Yoon Geon-young, a member of the Democratic Party, told reporters, "The NIS mentioned that they believe Kim Ju-ae is being exposed to the media to establish herself as a leader among North Koreans."
Earlier, NIS Director Lee Jong-seok indicated in a closed-door meeting in April that Kim Ju-ae could be viewed as a successor, stating, "This is not just a simple judgment; it is based on credible intelligence."
Yoon also noted that the NIS responded affirmatively regarding the potential for a US-North Korea summit, saying, "They believe it is possible at any time," and emphasized that while there are no confirmed contacts between the two sides, there are signs of dialogue.
Additionally, Yoo Young-ha, a member of the People Power Party, stated that the NIS is currently analyzing internal documents from the Workers' Party of Korea and missile design plans. He added that the agency has successfully identified and prevented attempts to leak advanced domestic technologies from North Korea, including the detection of plans for a new reactor and the engine of a Surion helicopter.
Yoo further explained that the NIS provided insights into North Korea's expansion of its Reconnaissance General Bureau into a Reconnaissance Information Bureau, aimed at enhancing counterintelligence capabilities. This includes appointing Lieutenant General Ri Chang-ho, who oversees overseas special operations, to handle operational information from the Ukraine war. Ri was seen leading a unit of overseas operational forces during a military parade commemorating the 9th Party Congress in February.
* This article has been translated by AI.
Copyright ⓒ Aju Press All rights reserved.