Hongik Pyo, Senior Presidential Secretary for Political Affairs, stated on Oct. 29 that constitutional amendment for presidential consecutive terms is realistically impossible under the current constitution. Speaking in an interview on Munhwa Broadcasting Corporation (MBC) radio program “Kim Jong-bae’s Focus,” Pyo addressed recent remarks by National Assembly Speaker Cho Jeong-sik regarding a “sitting president consecutive term constitutional amendment theory.” Pyo rejected any notion of an ongoing plan, dismissing speculation surrounding the administration’s political stance.
Constitutional Constraints on Presidential Term Amendments
Pyo stated during the radio interview, “I have never thought about a consecutive term constitutional amendment in my head, nor have I ever thought it possible.” His remarks directly addressed comments made by Speaker Cho during a press conference held at the National Assembly the previous day. Cho had remarked that the issue of a constitutional amendment for a sitting president is ultimately a matter of choice for the people. This statement led to public debate and speculation that the remarks did not rule out the possibility of the president seeking consecutive terms through constitutional revision.
According to Pyo, the current constitution explicitly mandates that any constitutional amendment aimed at extending presidential terms or altering provisions for a second term shall not apply to the president in office at the time of the proposal. Pyo noted that the president has also clarified this stance on multiple occasions. “The president has already well recognized this and has repeated that story several times,” Pyo said, shutting down any interpretations that the administration intends to pursue term extensions.
Did You Know? The current South Korea constitution explicitly states that any constitutional amendment targeting presidential term extensions or changes to single-term limits holds no legal validity for the president who proposes the measure at the time of introduction.
Addressing Speculation and Political Reorganization Claims
Pyo also addressed claims from various quarters that Speaker Cho’s remarks were coordinated in advance with the presidential office. Describing these theories as “conspiracy theories,” Pyo explained that the presidential office considered issuing a statement before deciding against it. “We thought about issuing a position yesterday from the presidential office, but because it was a remark by the National Assembly Speaker, we conveyed the opinion that it would be better for the National Assembly Speaker’s office to provide the explanation,” Pyo stated.
In addition to the constitutional debate, Pyo pushed back against recent claims regarding political reorganization raised by writer Yu Si-min. Pyo stated firmly that the presidential office has never planned any discussions regarding political reorganization. He explained that political reorganization typically arises when a ruling party holds minority status or can no longer contest elections effectively as a party. Pyo emphasized that the Democratic Party currently holds the top position in party approval ratings and secures more than 160 seats independently, leaving no reason to pursue political reorganization.
Status of Justice Ministry Leadership and Reform Schedules
Regarding the status of Justice Minister Jeong Sung-ho, who has faced reports of offering his resignation, Pyo clarified that no formal resignation has been tendered. “There is no official resignation expressed,” Pyo said during the interview. He emphasized the ongoing workload within the ministry, noting that judicial and prosecutorial reforms are currently underway.
Pyo highlighted that the new Prosecution Office and the Serious Crime Investigation Agency are scheduled to launch in October. He argued that the minister of the competent department must see these matters through to a stable institutional settlement before stepping away. “The minister of the competent department should resolve this issue and play a role until it is institutionally settled,” Pyo stated regarding Minister Jeong’s responsibilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What did National Assembly Speaker Cho Jeong-sik say regarding constitutional reform?
Speaker Cho stated during a press conference at the National Assembly that the issue of a constitutional amendment for a sitting president is ultimately a matter of choice for the people.
Why did Senior Secretary Hongik Pyo say consecutive terms are impossible?
Pyo cited the current constitution, which mandates that any constitutional amendment for presidential term extensions or middle-term changes does not apply to the president proposing the revision at that time.
What is the official stance on Justice Minister Jeong Sung-ho’s reported resignation?
Pyo stated that Minister Jeong has not officially expressed a resignation and should continue in his role until prosecutorial reforms and the October launch of the investigation agencies are institutionally settled.
How do you view the administration’s response to ongoing discussions about constitutional limits and legislative reforms?
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