Mystery Woman at Kim Jong Un's Side Sparks Controversy

A young woman at the side of Kim Jong Un at a ceremony is the subject of speculation: Who is the woman?

At a ceremony marking the 18th anniversary of the death of his grandfather, North Korean founder Kim II Sung, Kim Jong Un had a mystery woman at his side. The TV footage showed the woman, apparently in her twenties or thirties, walking next to the leader. She bowed with him before a portrait of Kim Il-sung.

The woman had very short hair and dressed in a black suit. She seems to be in her twenties or thirties. She is believed to be the same woman shown Saturday seated next to Kim at a concert. North Korean state broadcaster showed her walking into the concert hall behind Kim, and they clapped together at the end of Friday’s performance.

Very little is known about Kim Jong Un himself. It could be his sister, but it is unknown if he has a wife. In fact, even his age is uncertain, although he is believed to be in his late twenties.

North Korean officials have refused to comment on speculation about Kim Jong Un’s marital status, which has not been listed in official biographies for the young leader.