Trending: What makes Kim Jo-Yong North Korea’s most powerful woman

In the political landscape of North Korea, a figure has risen, capturing the attention of international observers and hinting at the possibility of a dynastic succession. She is the sister of the current leader, known for her poise and influence within the secretive corridors of power. This individual is Kim Jo-Yong, whose proximity to Kim Jong Un has sparked discussions about her potential to be the next in line, should the need arise.

Born on September 26, 1987, in Pyongyang, North Korea, Kim Yo-jong, as she is officially known, is the youngest child of the late leader Kim Jong Il and his consort Ko Yong Hui and thus sister to the current North Korean premier, Kim Jong Un.

Educated in Switzerland alongside her brother, Kim Jo-Yong returned to North Korea and graduated from Kim Il Sung University with a degree in computer science. Her political ascent began in 2007 when she was appointed as a junior cadre in the Workers’ Party of Korea (WPK). She quickly rose through the ranks, becoming an alternate member of the Politburo and serving as the Deputy Department Director of the Publicity and Information Department of the WPK.
Kim Jo-Yong’s role in state affairs became more prominent after her brother assumed power. She has been instrumental in crafting Kim Jong Un’s public image and has represented North Korea at various diplomatic events, including the 2018 Winter Olympics in South Korea. Her public appearances and political involvement have fueled speculation about her influence within the North Korean government and her potential as a successor to her brother.
In September 2021, Kim Jo-Yong was appointed as a member of the State Affairs Commission of North Korea, solidifying her status as one of the country’s most influential figures. Despite her powerful position, details about Kim Jo-Yong’s personal life remain scarce, shrouded by the secretive nature of the regime. She is believed to be married to Choe Song, the son of a prominent North Korean official, and is rumored to have two children. Her family ties and political lineage place her at the heart of the Kim dynasty, which has ruled North Korea since its inception.
Kim Jo-Yong’s rise to power reflects the dynastic politics of North Korea, where leadership often passes within the family. Her father, Kim Jong Il, succeeded his own father, Kim Il Sung, the country’s founding leader. Now, as Kim Jong Un’s health and leadership come under scrutiny, the world watches Kim Jo-Yong with keen interest, pondering whether she will continue the family legacy.
Her recent activities, including issuing public statements on behalf of the government and taking on more responsibilities within the WPK, suggest that her political influence is growing. While North Korea remains opaque about its succession plans, Kim Jo-Yong’s prominence in state affairs cannot be overlooked.
As North Korea navigates its future, Kim Jo-Yong stands at the crossroads of tradition and modernity, embodying the potential for continuity or change within the enigmatic and closed-off state. Whether she will ascend to her brother’s position remains uncertain, but her current trajectory points to a significant role in shaping her nation's destiny.