Kim Yo-jong, a prominent figure in North Korean politics, holds a significant position within the Workers’ Party of Korea. This comprehensive biography delves into her life, career, and influence.

Wiki/Biography

Kim Yo-jong’s birthdate is disputed. South Korean intelligence suggests September 26, 1987, while the U.S. Treasury Department cites September 26, 1989. Regardless, her birthplace was Pyongyang, North Korea. Her upbringing, according to some reports, was relatively isolated from the rest of the family, possibly to distance her from the legacy of her grandfather.

She reportedly lived with her mother, Ko Yong-hui, on Ch’angkwang Hill. Kim Yo-jong and her brother, Kim Jong-un, attended the Steinhölzli Public School in Berne, Switzerland, from approximately 1996 to 2000. After completing her schooling in Switzerland, she returned to North Korea.

Following her return, she pursued studies in Computer Science at Kim Il-sung Military University. This education likely provided her with valuable skills that have contributed to her political career.

Physical Appearance

• Height (approx.): 5’4″
• Hair Colour: Black
• Eye Colour: Black

Family & Ethnicity

Kim Yo-jong is of East Asian ethnicity and hails from the prominent Mount Paektu bloodline.

Parents & Siblings

Her father, Kim Jong-il, served as North Korea’s second Supreme Leader (d. 2011). Her mother, Ko Yong-hui, was a Korean dancer born in Japan (d. 2004). The account of her mother’s arrival in North Korea and meeting her father suggests a complicated family history. Reports indicate Kim Jong-il was already married with children, resulting in Kim Yo-jong having half-siblings: Kim Jong-nam and Kim Sol-song.

Kim Yo-jong has two older brothers: Kim Jong-chul, a guitarist, and Kim Jong-un, the current Supreme Leader of North Korea. Her family background undoubtedly shaped her political journey.

Relationships, Husband & Children

Information regarding her marital status remains uncertain. Speculation from South Korean and Japanese media outlets suggests she may be married to a finance official and have a child, but these claims lack confirmation. Other reports suggest she is unmarried.

Political Career

Kim Yo-jong’s political inclinations emerged early. Her father reportedly showcased her political interest to foreign dignitaries. She served under her father and aunt, Kim Kyong Hui, starting around 2007-2008. After her father’s stroke in 2008, her role expanded, joining his entourage and attending official visits.

Following her father’s death in 2011 and her brother’s ascension, her career within the Workers’ Party of Korea (WPK) advanced significantly. Her involvement in various capacities highlights her growing power and influence within the North Korean government.

First Public Appearance

Media first recognized Kim Yo-jong in September 2010, at a WPK conference. Her subsequent appearance at her father’s funeral solidified her presence in the public eye.

Groomed By Her Aunt

Kim Kyong-hui, her aunt, played a crucial role in mentoring Kim Yo-jong and shaping her political understanding. Kim Yo-jong has followed a similar path, significantly influencing her brother’s public image.

A notable incident involves Kim Yo-jong replacing her aunt in 2017 within the political bureau, possibly due to her aunt’s husband’s attempted coup against Kim Jong-un.

Working Behind Closed Doors

Kim Yo-jong is known for her behind-the-scenes work, managing many of her brother’s public affairs. Her position as deputy director of the Propaganda and Agitation Department enables her to shape his public persona.

South Korea Visit

Kim Yo-jong’s visit to the 2018 Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang marked a historic moment, being the first immediate member of the Kim dynasty to enter South Korea. This event aimed at easing tensions on the Korean Peninsula.

Her meetings with South Korean President Moon Jae-in further emphasized the significance of this diplomatic outreach.

The Next Supreme Leader of North Korea?

Kim Yo-jong’s prominent role in North Korean affairs raises questions about her potential succession. While some see her as a likely successor, others point to North Korea’s patriarchal political structure.

Speculation intensified in 2020 amid rumors of her brother’s illness. Her capabilities are undeniable, but the path to the supreme leadership remains uncertain.

Facts/Trivia

Here’s a table summarizing key facts and trivia: