Speculation on North Korea’s Succession Framework
South Korean Ministry of Unification’s Perspective
A high-ranking government official pointed out the possibility of power succession to Kim Ju Ae, the daughter of Kim Jong Un. The Chairman of the State Affairs Commission of North Korea stated, “There is a counterargument as to whether a woman can become the supreme leader because North Korea is a Confucian and patriarchal society.”
The Ministry of Unification stated on the 6th that considering recent trends in North Korea, the likelihood of an early debut for Kim Ju Ae’s 4th generation succession shouldn’t be dismissed. They suggest a need for a comprehensive analysis from various perspectives. North Korean state media reports have frequently shown Kim Ju Ae receiving military salutes while accompanying Kim Jong Un’s schedule.
Analysis of Diplomatic Challenges
Regarding this, Kim Young Ho, Minister of Unification, explained at a press conference in Yangpyeong, Gyeonggi Province, on the same day, “The fact that Kim Jong Un continues to highlight his daughter is evidence that he is somewhat rushing to show his will to succession amid difficulties.” Minister Kim pointed out the signal that North Korea is in trouble, such as the withdrawal of overseas diplomatic missions, chronic food shortages, and the increase in North Korean defectors, and expressed this opinion.
He speculated that the withdrawal of North Korea’s overseas diplomatic missions is due to the difficulties and financial limitations of North Korean diplomacy, and the increase in the number of North Korean defectors from 67 last year to 180 so far this year is due to the influence of Korean culture.
He analyzed that North Korea’s recent escalation of tensions on the Korean Peninsula, such as the restoration of the demilitarized zone observation post (GP) and the armament of Panmunjom after the launch of a military reconnaissance satellite, is an attempt to divert internal difficulties externally.
Minister Kim announced that next year’s North Korean policy will continue this year’s principle, saying, “The government will make a firm and restrained response while anticipating various political and military movements in North Korea” and “We will also make efforts to create conditions for humanitarian aid to North Korea.”
By. Park Kyung Hun
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