Full Breakdown
North Korea Revises Constitution to Formalize Two-State Stance and Boost Kim Jong-un’s Authority
5/6/2026, 1:01:47 PM
Revised Constitution
On 22 March 2026 the 15th Supreme People’s Assembly approved a revised constitution that defines DPRK territory as land bordering China, Russia and Republic of Korea, with waters and airspace, and adds a clause that state “will never tolerate any infringement.” It removes references to peaceful reunification, “independence, peace, national unity,” achievements of Kim Il-sung and Kim Jong-il, and drops “Socialist” from the title.
Context and Institutional Changes
North Korea’s 1948 constitution has been amended repeatedly, most recently in 2026. The revision names Chairman Kim Jong-un “head of state” above the Supreme People’s Assembly, gives him direct nuclear command, and strips the Assembly’s recall power. Expert Lee Jung-chul briefed reporters; President Yoon Suk-yeol dismissed dialogue, while President Lee Jae-myung’s administration remains open to talks.
Core Textual Changes
Article 2 defines DPRK borders with China, Russia and South Korea, banning infringement. Articles 86 and 89 name the State Affairs Commission chairman head of state and grant him nuclear-weapon command. Reunification language and references to Kim Il-sung and Kim Jong-il are omitted, and the SPA’s recall power removed.
Regional Implications
The constitution formalizes a two-state reality, echoing Kim’s “two hostile states” stance. Centralized nuclear authority raises security concerns, and the undefined maritime border remains a flashpoint, conflicting with South Korea’s claim to the whole peninsula.
Official Reactions
North Korean media called the amendment a step toward “peaceful coexistence.” South Korean officials warned it clashes with Article 3 of the constitution; President Yoon Suk-yeol dismissed Pyongyang’s overtures, while President Lee Jae-myung signaled willingness to negotiate.
Criticism and Opposition
South Korean analysts say the removal of reunification language and concentration of nuclear command in Kim signal a hardening stance, warning that neutral wording may mask a strategic push for a two-state order.
Conflicting Reports and Gaps
Some sources note the constitution does not label South Korea as a “primary foe,” contradicting Kim’s 2024 claim that Seoul is the “principal enemy.” The maritime boundary remains undefined, leaving enforcement uncertain.
Verbatim Quotes
- “It is important to reflect in the constitution the issue of completely occupying, pacifying, and reclaiming the Republic of Korea, and incorporating it into the territory of the republic in the event of war.” — Kim Jong-un, policy address
- “We absolutely do not allow any infringement on our territory.” — Kim Jong-un, KCNA statement
- “The command over nuclear weapons rests with the chairman of the State Council.” — Article 89, DPRK Constitution
What Lies Ahead
The United Nations has already been asked for comment on the changes, and South Korea is likely to craft a policy response that balances diplomatic outreach with security concerns.
