National Intelligence Service (NIS)

Force in Play

As of October 2026: Told lawmakers Zelenskyy went public to seek Seoul's support for weapons aid

Zelenskyy told the UN General Assembly on Sept 23 that Ukraine had transferred two North Korean prisoners of war to South Korea. Seoul says the disclosure broke a secrecy deal, and it has demanded an apology and recalled its ambassador from Kyiv.

Updated Oct 10

Force in Play

As of May 2026: Issued formal succession assessment

South Korea's National Intelligence Service told lawmakers on April 6 that it's now "fair to view" Kim Ju Ae — Kim Jong Un's approximately 13-year-old daughter — as his designated successor. The assessment cites her completed successor training and expanded public profile, including appearances driving tanks and firing weapons at military events.

Updated May 30