North Korea Revises Constitution, Drops Reunification with South Korea
North Korea has revised its constitution to eliminate references to reunification with South Korea and formally define its territory as bordering the Republic of Korea to the south, according to a document cited by Reuters. The updated Article 2 states that North Korea's territory includes land adjacent to China, Russia, and South Korea, along with its territorial waters and airspace, and declares that the country 'absolutely does not allow any infringement on its territory.'
The constitutional changes designate Kim Jong Un, as chairman of the State Affairs Commission, as the nation's head of state, replacing prior language that described the role as 'supreme leader representing the state.' The revision explicitly places command of North Korea's nuclear forces under Kim's authority and describes the country as a 'responsible nuclear weapons state' committed to advancing its arsenal to deter war and ensure national survival.
Experts say the amendments reflect Kim's February declaration that South Korea is the North's 'primary foe' and that reunification is no longer a goal. The move marks the first time Pyongyang has included a territorial definition in its constitution and aligns with Kim's statement that South Koreans are no longer 'compatriots.'
South Korean President Lee Jae Myung has offered unconditional talks, but Pyongyang has not responded and continues to label Seoul as its 'most hostile' adversary. The constitutional update follows a series of missile tests and deepening military cooperation between North Korea and Russia.
The changes were adopted during a March session of the Supreme People’s Assembly, officials told Reuters. Regional tensions remain high as analysts monitor further signs of doctrinal shifts in Pyongyang's foreign and defense policy.