Presidential race heats up with Constitutional reform discussion and Yoon's PPP exit

The anniversary of the May 18 Pro-democratization movement usually pushes politicians to address Constitutional reform.

This year was no different, with a presidential election going on.

Our Kim Do-yeon has more.

Against the backdrop of the May 18 Pro-Democratization Movement anniversary, the presidential race is heating up over the issue of constitutional reform.

It began with Democratic Party candidate Lee Jae-myung posting on Facebook, renewing calls to enshrine the spirit of the movement in the Constitution and carry its legacy forward.

But what drew more attention was his push to overhaul Korea’s power structure, proposing a four-year presidential term with the possibility of re-election, similar to the U.S. model.

The rival People Power Party had already floated a similar idea but took it a step further, suggesting the next president serve a shortened three-year term, allowing the new four-year system to begin in 2028, in line with the next general election.

Lee said such limitations are only necessary for those who abuse presidential power.

"What truly matters isn’t just constitutional reform, but restoring stability, reviving the economy, and improving people’s lives."

The PPP candidate Kim Moon-soo welcomed the discussion, even proposing to scrap a presidential immunity from criminal prosecution, which would mean presidents could face trial even while in office.

He also called for an immediate agreement from Lee to amend the Constitution.

Another key turning point came Saturday, with impeached former President Yoon Suk Yeol announcing he would leave the People Power Party.

Pressure had been building, especially after the PPP’s interim leader publicly urged him to leave.

Yoon said he would continue to support the PPP as a private citizen, not as a party member.

With the race still overshadowed by Yoon’s martial law controversy and impeachment, the PPP has struggled to boost its approval ratings.

Kim responded briefly, repeating his stance that Yoon’s decision is his alone.

"I respect the president's decision to leave the party. The Party will now unite stronger and reform more to reflect the people's will."

Opposition parties were quick to call it a political maneuver.

The DP’s Lee Jae-myung said the PPP should have expelled Yoon long ago and called his departure a fake exit.

With presidential power and the legacy of martial law both looming over the race, voters now head into the final stretch, with just over two weeks left until the June 3rd election.

Kim Do-yeon, Arirang News.