Cai Qi, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau and Secretariat of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, welcomed North Korean leader Kim Jong-un at a train station in Beijing on 2/9. Images released show Kim Jong-un's daughter directly behind him.

This is the first time Kim Jong-un has brought his daughter on a trip to China. Previously, his wife, Ri Sol-ju, accompanied him on his three prior visits to China.

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and his daughter arrive at a Chinese train station on 2/9. Photo: AFP

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and his daughter arrive at a Chinese train station on 2/9. Photo: AFP

South Korean media speculate this move may be to solidify his daughter's standing in the international community. However, some suggest her presence simply symbolizes the "future generation" of North Korea.

Kim Jong-un's daughter, seemingly born in 2013, first gained attention in 11/2022 when she accompanied her father to observe the test launch of the Hwasong-17 intercontinental ballistic missile, marking her first public appearance. Since then, she has frequently accompanied him to important events.

North Korean state media initially referred to her as Kim Jong-un's "beloved daughter," but later changed to "respected daughter," sparking speculation about her as a potential successor.

Ngoc Anh (Korea Times, Chosun Daily, BBC)