Seoul: The leader of the ruling Democratic Party (DP) emphasized the necessity for South Korea to bolster its independent security capabilities, while suggesting a potential shift towards a "freeze-first" approach regarding North Korea's nuclear weapons program.

According to Yonhap News Agency, Rep. Kim Min-seok, in his policy address to the National Assembly, highlighted the importance of South Korea facilitating dialogue between the United States and North Korea. He stressed the need for Seoul to be prepared for possible changes in U.S.-North Korea relations. Kim remarked that should there be a significant improvement in relations between the two nations, South Korea needs to be ready for a "freeze-first, resolve-later" strategy on the North Korean nuclear issue.

Kim further noted that South Korea can no longer rely solely on the United States, as Washington is evolving into "a tough negotiating partner rather than a generous big brother." He urged Seoul to consider North Korean leader Kim Jong-un's "two-state" policy as a potential avenue for peaceful coexistence, rather than dismissing it outright.

In the international arena, recent developments include U.S. President Donald Trump's expression of willingness to meet Kim Jong-un later this year. Trump also ordered a reduction in a major South Korea-U.S. military exercise, citing his positive relationship with Kim and the exercises' potential to send a "totally inappropriate and hostile" signal to North Korea. This decision has raised concerns about weakening the allies' deterrence capabilities against North Korea's nuclear and missile threats.

On the domestic front, Kim pledged to advocate for a constitutional revision that aligns with public consensus and prioritizes people's livelihoods and balanced regional development. He emphasized the importance of pursuing a constitutional amendment that reflects contemporary demands and respects the procedural principles of the current Constitution and laws.

Kim's remarks follow comments from National Assembly Speaker Cho Jeong-sik, who suggested that the eligibility of an incumbent president to seek another term under a revised Constitution is ultimately up to the populace. This statement has led to speculation among opposition lawmakers regarding the possibility of President Lee Jae Myung seeking a second term.