I find it very hard to have firm opinions about the modern DPRK's internal politics because virtually all English language media on the subject is shot through with decades of the most virulent propaganda. There's a high chance that any of the key U.S. narratives on the subject -- such as the Kims being essentially an absolute monarchy -- are more bullshit than reality.

Some folks on here are more knowledgeable, though, and describe the Kims (certainly in the modern DPRK) as having a kind of Queen of England (rest in piss) role: most of the real governing is done in other bodies, but they have some influence/authority and aren't pure figureheads.