South Korea’s main opposition Democratic Party (DP) amended its charter in ways that potentially undermine the rule of law and accountability for political leaders. The changes, which include removing safeguards against corruption, risk eroding democratic norms and concentrating power in the hands of party leadership.

Last week, DP committee members overwhelmingly approved 11 amendments to the party’s main charter. The most contentious change involves the removal of Article 80, which previously mandated the suspension of party members accused of corruption. This modification has sparked intense debate within political circles and among legal experts.

The amendments come as South Korean