National Assembly Speaker Cho Jung-sik proposed completing a 10th constitutional amendment within the current 22nd National Assembly [1], [2].
The proposal signals a push for a fundamental legal overhaul to modernize the state's governing framework, but it has immediately sparked a partisan divide in Seoul.
Cho said the announcement during the 78th Constitution Day ceremony [1], [2]. The event, held at the National Assembly main hall, was attended by approximately 500 people [1]. Cho said the goal is to create a "great transition to a new era" through what he called a "constitution for everyone" [1], [2].
While the Speaker framed the move as a necessary step for the nation, the People Power Party expressed opposition to the proposal [1], [2]. The ruling party's resistance suggests that achieving the consensus required for a constitutional change may face significant hurdles in the 22nd National Assembly [1].
Parallel to the constitutional debate, the Democratic Party of Korea addressed internal leadership disputes. The party decided to allow Song Young-gil and Kim Yong to run for top leadership positions [1], [2]. This decision comes as the party seeks to resolve controversies surrounding the eligibility of candidates for its highest executive roles [1], [2].
Cho's call for the 10th amendment seeks to finalize a process that has been debated across multiple legislative terms [1]. The Speaker said the current assembly should be the one to conclude the matter [1].
““Let us create a new era of great transition with a constitution for everyone,” said Speaker Cho Jung-sik.”
The simultaneous push for a 10th constitutional amendment and the Democratic Party's decision to allow controversial figures like Song Young-gil and Kim Yong to run for leadership highlight a period of intense institutional volatility. By attempting to rewrite the foundational law of the land while managing internal party fractures, South Korean leadership is attempting to redefine the state's power structure amid deep ideological polarization.
