North Korea abandons reunification with ‘hostile’ South in constitutional shift

Article 9 of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea constitution currently states that it seeks to achieve socialism “in the northern half of Korea” and seeks “reunification on the principle of independence, peaceful reunification, and great national unity”.

When exactly the move would formally occur is uncertain, however. “It’s hard to predict whether it will be done today or tomorrow”, he said.

Analysts expect the amended constitution to include clauses defining North Korea as a “separate socialist state”, signalling a definitive break from any historical or ethnic ties with the South.