Seoul: North Korea appears to be advancing in the process of designating leader Kim Jong-un's daughter, Ju-ae, as his successor, according to remarks from lawmakers who were briefed by the country's spy agency on Thursday. This development marks an intensified evaluation from the previous assessment that labeled her as the "most likely successor."

According to Yonhap News Agency, the National Intelligence Service (NIS) based its latest assessment on indications that Ju-ae is expressing her views on certain state policies. This was revealed during a closed-door session with the parliamentary intelligence committee, as reported by Reps. Park Sun-won and Lee Seong-kweun. The agency noted Ju-ae's presence at significant events, such as the anniversary of the Korean People's Army and visits to the Kumsusan Palace of the Sun, as evidence of her emerging role.

Lee Seong-kweun highlighted that this assessment represents a progression from earlier views where Ju-ae was described as being "trained" to eventually become a successor. Now, she is seen as having entered the stage of "successor designation." The NIS plans to monitor her potential attendance at the North's key party congress later this month, which could further solidify her position as a successor.

In a previous evaluation in January 2024, the NIS identified Ju-ae, who is believed to have been born in 2013, as the "most likely successor" within the reclusive regime. Her appearance at the Kumsusan Palace of the Sun with her parents earlier this year fueled speculation about her future role.

The NIS also commented on the prospect of North Korea engaging in dialogue with the United States, suggesting that the North might respond positively if specific conditions are met. Despite expressing dissatisfaction with U.S. actions related to South Korea-U.S. relations, North Korea has not dismissed dialogue entirely and has avoided criticizing former President Donald Trump.

In addition, the agency reported that North Korea has refrained from launching intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) to avoid provoking Trump, who has been sensitive to such actions. The NIS revealed that approximately 10,000 North Korean troops are currently deployed in Russia's front-line Kursk region to support Moscow's efforts in the Ukraine conflict, with significant casualties reported.

The NIS also noted advancements in North Korea's military capabilities, including the establishment of a new department focused on unmanned aerial vehicles and efforts to develop and mass-produce drones. On inter-Korean relations, the NIS reported continued tensions, with North Korea maintaining its stance of defining the two Koreas as "two hostile states."

Regarding North Korea's relations with China, the agency indicated that while trade between the two nations reached $3 billion last year, it remains at half the level prior to sanctions. The intelligence committee also discussed the situation of two North Korean soldiers held by Ukrainian forces, with efforts underway to assist their defection to South Korea.