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Kim Names 3rd Son as Next 'Dear Leader'

25-year-old set to rule North Korea when father steps down

By Jason Farago,  Newser Staff

Posted Jun 2, 2009 3:48 AM CDT
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(Newser) – Kim Jong-il has designated his youngest son Jong-un as his successor to lead North Korea, according to reports in the South Korean media. It's the latest sign of dramatic transformation in the isolated nation that launched a highly controversial nuclear test last week. It remains unclear whether Jong-un, 25, will hold real power or serve as a figurehead, reports the Times of London.

Speculation about the future of North Korea has been intense since Kim reportedly suffered a stroke last summer and disappeared from view for three months. Jong-un was educated at a Swiss boarding school and is said to have driven a specially converted Mercedes around the family compound as a boy. It may be years before Jong-un takes the top spot; his father had a similar path to power.

South Korean protesters and North Korean defectors shout slogans during a rally against North Korea's nuclear test and missiles in Seoul.
South Korean protesters and North Korean defectors shout slogans during a rally against North Korea's nuclear test and missiles in Seoul.   (AP Photo/Yonhap, Kim Ju-sung)
The secretive state sent the message about the 25-year-old son, Jong-un, after the nation's May 25 nuclear test, which, along with a series of missile tests, has hiked ensions in the region.
The secretive state sent the message about the 25-year-old son, Jong-un, after the nation's May 25 nuclear test, which, along with a series of missile tests, has hiked ensions in the region.   (AP Photo/Japan Pool, File)
South Korean protesters hold portraits of North Korean Kim Jong-il, right, and his third son Kim Jong-un. North Korea told its diplomatic missions that Jong-un will be the nation's next leader.
South Korean protesters hold portraits of North Korean Kim Jong-il, right, and his third son Kim Jong-un. North Korea told its diplomatic missions that Jong-un will be the nation's next leader.   (AP Photo/Ahn Young-joon, File)
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North Korea's next Kim
Time

The Dear Leader's three sons
Korea Herald (South Korea)

 
North Korea • Kim Jong Il • political dynasty • succession • Kim Jong-Un

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