National Assembly Speaker Woo Won-shik urged the People Power Party to reconsider its opposition to his constitutional amendment proposal, warning that "if we cannot start the amendment process now, it will be difficult going forward."
In a Facebook post on the 11th, Woo wrote, "I have been listening to various opinions on the Speaker's constitutional amendment proposal made yesterday (the 10th). I am pleased and feel a heightened sense of responsibility as consensus seems to be forming around starting the process this time."
He added, "I have also seen the opinions of People Power Party lawmakers, including Floor Leader Song Eon-seok. I ask them to reconsider deeply once more."
The previous day, Woo had requested both ruling and opposition parties to "form a Special Committee on Constitutional Amendment by the 17th," citing the recent revision of the National Referendum Act, which had been considered a procedural obstacle.
However, Floor Leader Song expressed opposition, stating, "This is a time when the National Assembly should focus all its efforts on addressing people's livelihoods, not leisurely discuss constitutional amendments." He also remarked that he "cannot agree to election-driven constitutional politics."
Woo responded, "The Speaker has not made a complicated proposal. The 39-year-old constitution is too outdated, but since a complete overhaul is difficult, let us at least pursue partial amendments when the opportunity arises. Since there is already a nationwide election (local elections) on June 3, let us hold the national referendum on that day."
He continued, "If one agrees that constitutional amendment is necessary, we should not miss this opportunity. I find it difficult to accept claims that this proposal involves election politics or neglects livelihood issues."
Woo emphasized, "The entire nation and all political forces suffered greatly from the December 3 martial law declaration. Should preventing such incidents from recurring be a matter of timing? Now, when there is an opportunity to vote and public opinion has gathered, is the time."
He argued that holding the referendum alongside public elections is "efficient and realistic in terms of voter convenience and cost," noting that achieving the required majority turnout would otherwise be difficult.
"The key question is whether to open the door to constitutional amendment or not—not the timing or level of discussion," Woo said. "There is still time until the 17th. I ask for careful deliberation on where public sentiment is heading and what the National Assembly should responsibly undertake for the nation's future."