South Korean President Lee Jae Myung has called for amendments to the nation’s Constitution to formally acknowledge its significant pro-democracy movements. In a ceremony held in Busan on Friday to commemorate the 47th anniversary of the 1979 Buma uprising, Lee urged the National Assembly to initiate discussions on constitutional reform.
The Buma uprising, which began on October 16, 1979, at Pusan National University, saw students and citizens in Busan and Masan protest against the authoritarian regime of then-President Park Chung-hee. Authorities responded with arrests and martial law, making the uprising a pivotal moment in South Korea’s journey towards democracy. Lee emphasized the importance of including the Buma uprising and the May 1980 Gwangju Democratization Movement in the Constitution’s preamble to honor those who fought for democratic values and to reinforce the principle of political accountability to the people.
President Lee highlighted the courage of those who resisted authoritarian rule despite facing severe repression, describing their efforts as crucial milestones in the development of South Korea’s democracy. He also acknowledged other significant movements, such as the June 1987 Democracy Movement and recent public protests defending democratic institutions.
In addition to recognizing these movements, Lee has pushed for broader constitutional reforms, including altering the presidential term structure from a single five-year term to allowing two consecutive four-year terms. His call comes after a previous attempt by the ruling Democratic Party of Korea to pass a constitutional amendment failed in the National Assembly in May.
Lee’s proposal aims to provide a common ground for renewed discussions on constitutional reform, advocating for bipartisan cooperation in public consultations to ensure that future generations do not have to endure the same sacrifices to protect democracy.
The president’s initiative underscores a commitment to preserving the historical legacy of South Korea’s pro-democracy movements and ensuring that political power remains accountable to its citizens. By advocating for constitutional recognition, Lee seeks to solidify the achievements of past democratic struggles and inspire ongoing efforts to uphold democratic principles.