North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, his wife Ri Sol-ju, and their daughter attended the opening ceremony of the Kalma seaside resort on 24/6, the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported on 26/6.

South Korean media described this as the North Korean first lady's first public appearance in 18 months, since a New Year's performance on 1/1/2024.

Photos released by KCNA show Ri Sol-ju wearing a white shirt, wide-legged black pants, and carrying a dark handbag.

Ri Sol-ju (far left) alongside her daughter Ju-ae and Kim Jong-un. Photo: KCNA

Ri Sol-ju (far left) alongside her daughter Ju-ae and Kim Jong-un. Photo: KCNA

Ri Sol-ju had frequently appeared alongside Kim Jong-un at major North Korean events since he took power in late 2011. This attracted attention due to the contrast with the style of his predecessors.

Yang Moo-jin, president of the University of North Korean Studies in Seoul, suggested that Ri Sol-ju's recent limited appearances might be to give more attention to her daughter, Ju-ae, whom observers believe could be Kim Jong-un's successor.

Nhu Tam (According to Yonhap, KCNA)