Kim bolsters daughter’s image with tank appearance

The daughter of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, known as Kim Ju Ae, has once again appeared in public – this time at the controls of an army tank.

Photographs released by the state-run KCNA news agency show the approximately 13-year-old girl inside the vehicle while her father sits behind her. Analysts say the appearance may signal that the regime is gradually preparing her for a future leadership role.

Ju Ae has been appearing alongside Kim with increasing frequency in recent months, particularly at military events. She has recently been seen at a firing range holding a gun.

The latest appearance is linked to the testing of an advanced tank which, according to North Korean media, demonstrates strong capabilities against both drones and anti-tank weapons. Kim has long pushed for the modernisation of the military, including the development of missile and nuclear capabilities.

(reuters, pir)