Kim Jong Un’s teenage daughter drives tank in latest public appearance

North Korea’s leader, Kim Jong Un, was photographed watching his teenage daughter operate a military tank during a training event, according to images released Friday by the state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA). Some analysts say her growing presence at official events could signal that she is being prepared for a future leadership role.

The girl, widely believed to be Kim’s daughter Ju Ae and thought to be about 13 years old, has appeared alongside her father more often in public over the past several months.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and his daughter Kim Ju Ae board a tank during their visit to the Pyongyang Training Base on March 20, 2026. KCNA VIA KNS/AFP via Getty Images

In the newest photos, she is shown peering out from the driver’s hatch of the tank with a concentrated expression as wind moves through her hair. Kim stands beside the turret smiling, while three uniformed officers sit on the vehicle’s hull behind them. Earlier in the month she was photographed at a shooting range aiming a rifle, and in another instance she was seen firing a handgun.

Kim's daughter, known as Ju Ae, is believed to be around 13 years old. — Kim’s daughter, known as Ju Ae, is believed to be around 13 years old. KCNA VIA KNS/AFP via Getty Images

Analysts have suggested that Kim Jong Un’s daughter is training to replace her father. KCNA VIA KNS/AFP via Getty Images

North Korea has not officially confirmed her name or age. KCNA reported that Kim oversaw a demonstration Thursday involving a newly developed tank designed to better withstand threats such as drones and anti-tank missiles while improving offensive capabilities.

In recent years, Kim has focused on upgrading the country’s conventional military forces. These efforts include developing new tactical missile systems while continuing to expand North Korea’s strategic weapons program, which features long-range ballistic missiles and nuclear arms.

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