
North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has appeared with his baby daughter in public for the first time, confirming long-rumored reports of her existence.
The girl, believed to be Kim Chu-ae, joined him on an inspection of the country's largest intercontinental ballistic missile launch on Friday.
They held hands during the missile test, which was condemned by the US. Her public appearance is significant as very little is known about the Korean leader's personal life.
Several photos were released by North Korea's state news agency KCNA, showing the two holding hands as they chat, speak with officials, inspect missiles and watch their launch.
Experts say Kim, who is the third generation of his family to rule North Korea, is showing his country's elites that he still has a firm grip on power.
The first time Chu-ae's existence was mentioned was in 2013, after retired American basketball star Dennis Rodman made a controversial trip to North Korea.
Chu-ae was between 12 and 13 years old, which means that in about four to five years she will be preparing to go to university or military service.
Experts believe Kim could have up to three children, two daughters and a son, with Chu-ae being the eldest.
But the Korean leader has kept his family extremely private, and even his wife Ri Sol-ju was kept a secret until some time after the couple married.