Kim Jong-il’s third son, Kim Jong-un, will become North Korea’s next leader, according to unconfirmed South Korean media reports. The BBC News website and BBC Monitoring profile this elusive young man.
A look at Key family members of North Korea’s Kim Jong Il
by Associated Press
_ Kim Jong Un, 26: Youngest son. Studied English, French and German at International School of Bern in Switzerland. Reportedly a fan of NBA basketball and enjoys skiing. Father’s former Japanese sushi chef says he looks and acts just like his father.
_ Kim Jong Nam, 38: Eldest son. Reportedly fell out of favor to succeed his father after he was caught using forged Dominican passport to enter Japan to visit Tokyo’s Disney resort. Reportedly enjoys gambling and lived in Macau, the only place in China where casino gambling is legal.
_ Kim Jong Chol, 28: Second son, described as “girlish” by Kim Jong Il’s former sushi chef.
_ Jang Song Thaek, 63: Brother-in-law of Kim Jong Il and member of the all-powerful National Defense Commission, the nation’s highest organization. Married to Kim Jong Il’s sister and is said to be poised to play a kingmaker role or lead a collective leadership after Kim’s death until the new leader takes over.
_ Kim Kyong Hui, 63: Younger sister of Kim Jong Il. Married Russian-educated Jang at age 26. South Korean newspaper reported in late March she was believed to be in critical condition due to complications from alcoholism.
_ Kim Ok, 45: Kim Jong Il’s companion. He is believed to have had three wives before taking her as his companion several years ago. She is said to be a pianist who served as the leader’s secretary since the 1980s. Reportedly accompanied Kim on a secret visit to China in 2006. Kim’s late wife, Ko Yong Hi — mother of his two younger sons — reportedly hand-picked Kim Ok to replace her when she was dying.
Picture Gallery: Kim Jong-il: the life and times of the leader of North Korea
