(LEAD) Lee calls for constitutional revision to reflect spirit of democratization

President Lee Jae Myung called on the National Assembly on Friday to push for a constitutional revision, urging it to reflect the spirit of South Korea's democratization movements. This request came during a ceremony commemorating the 47th anniversary of the 1979 Busan-Masan pro-democracy protests, also known as the Buma uprising.

Lee emphasized that the country should not forget the history of defending democracy and people's sovereignty, drawing a parallel between the Buma movement and the Gwangju democratization movement. The president urged the National Assembly to begin gathering public opinions and holding reasonable discussions on constitutional reform, following a May vote where a Democratic Party (DP)-proposed amendment failed to pass.

Lee has repeatedly stressed the need for a constitutional amendment aimed at changing the presidential system from a single five-year term to two four-year terms, criticizing the Constitution as outdated. He highlighted the importance of inscribing the spirit and history of South Korea's democratization in the minds of future generations, pledging efforts to restore the honor of those who suffered due to state violence.

The president expressed hope for a future Republic of Korea where no one would have to give up or sacrifice their lives to defend democracy, and where those in power would fear the public.