Speaker Cho Jung-sik proposed that the 22nd National Assembly finalize the 10th constitutional amendment during a ceremony on Friday [1].
The proposal arrives at a moment of high political tension, as the Speaker seeks to utilize a rare window of legislative stability to reshape the nation's fundamental law. Because there are no nationwide simultaneous elections scheduled for next year, Cho said the timing is ideal for the National Assembly to calmly discuss constitutional reform [1].
Cho made the announcement during the 78th Constitution Day celebration held at the National Assembly's central hall [1]. The event was attended by approximately 500 people [1]. During his address, Cho said, "Let us create a new era of great transition with a constitution for everyone" [1].
The proposal did not find immediate favor across the aisle. The People Power Party responded with a cold reception to the Speaker's call for a 10th amendment [1]. This friction underscores the ongoing ideological divide regarding the structure of executive power, and legislative authority in South Korea.
Simultaneously, the Democratic Party of Korea moved to resolve internal candidacy disputes. The party announced it has allowed Song Young-gil and Kim Yong, a former vice president of the Democratic Institute, to run for office [2].
Chief Spokesperson Kang Jun-hyun said the party's steering committee decided to grant an exception to the eligibility requirements for the two candidates [2]. The decision follows a review of party regulations regarding candidate qualifications [2].
While the Speaker's call for a constitutional overhaul aims for long-term systemic change, the Democratic Party's decision to allow Song and Kim to run focuses on immediate electoral strategy, and internal party loyalty [2].
“"Let us create a new era of great transition with a constitution for everyone"”
The push for a 10th amendment represents a strategic attempt to redefine the South Korean presidency and legislative balance before the next major election cycle. However, the immediate rejection by the People Power Party suggests that constitutional reform will remain a partisan battleground rather than a consensus-driven process. Meanwhile, the Democratic Party's decision to waive eligibility rules for Song and Kim indicates a priority on consolidating political alliances over strict adherence to candidate vetting protocols.
