PYONGYANG, North Korea, Sept. 9 (UPI) -- North Korean leader Kim Jong Un's baby daughter is named Ju-ae and Kim is a "good dad," former NBA star Dennis Rodman told Britain's Guardian newspaper.
Rodman, who calls Kim a friend, returned last the weekend from his second trip to the isolated and impoverished country without jailed Korean-American missionary Kenneth Bae. It had been speculated, Rodman, during his five-day visit hobnobbing with Kim, might seek the release of Bae, who has been sentenced to 15 years of hard labor but the former U.S. basketball star said it wasn't his place to play diplomat.
Speaking to The Guardian, Rodman disclosed Kim's baby daughter has been named Ju-ae.
"The Marshal Kim and I had a relaxing time by the sea with his family," Rodman said. "We shared many meals and drinks where we discussed our plans to play a historic friendship basketball game between North Korea and the United States as well as ways to develop their basketball team."
Rodman went on to tell the newspaper: "I held their baby Ju-ae and spoke with Ms. Ri [Sol-Ju, Kim's wife] as well. He's a good dad and has a beautiful family. Kim told me, 'I'll see you in December.'"
The visitor said the North Korean leader loves basketball, and is interested "in building trust and understanding through sport and cultural exchanges."
"I know in time Americans will see I'm just trying to help us all get along and see eye to eye through basketball and with my friendship with Kim I know this will happen," Rodman added.
North Korea's state-run news agency had reported Kim had "warmly greeted" Rodman on his arrival and that the men watched a basketball game and had dinner.
Rodman first traveled to North Korea in February.
