South Korean media say North Korea has told its diplomatic missions abroad that Kim Jong-il's youngest son has been named as the next leader.
Two newspapers and an opposition lawmaker said diplomats had been told to support Kim Jong-un.
South Korea's Hankook Ilbo and Dong-a Ilbo newspapers reported that the regime sent the message right after the 25 May nuclear test.
There has been much speculation over who would follow the ailing Mr Kim.
He suffered a stroke last year, but appears to have recovered somewhat.
Analysts have said the North's recent military actions, including last week's nuclear test, may be aimed at helping Mr Kim solidify power so that he can name a successor.
Little known
The reports quoted unnamed members of South Korea's parliamentary intelligence committee briefed by the spy agency, although the spy agency refused to confirm the reports.
The Associated Press reported that opposition legislator Park Jie-won, a member of the parliament's intelligence committee, told local radio he had been briefed by the government on the North's move.
Mr Park said the regime is "pledging allegiance to Kim Jong-un", it reported.
The Dong-a Ilbo added that the North is teaching its people a song lauding the son - who reportedly enjoys skiing and studied English, German and French at a Swiss school.
There is no confirmed photograph of the adult Kim Jong-un and his age is uncertain. He was born either in 1983 or early 1984, reports say.
Questions have also been raised over whether his late mother, a Japanese-born professional dancer called Ko Yong-hui, was Kim Jong-il's official wife or mistress.
( Source : BBC News )
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