Topic analysis

North Korea's new constitution deepens split with Seoul

North Korea's revised constitution, distributed by South Korea's Ministry of Unification on May 6, removes all references to reunification with South Korea and formally frames Seoul as a hostile state, while codifying Kim Jong Un's exclusive authority to deploy nuclear and conventional forces. Experts note these changes deepen the long-standing split between the two Koreas, heighten risks of border and maritime disputes, and serve to consolidate Kim's power by justifying regime security and suppressing internal dissent.