헌법 전문을 통해 본 대한민국의 과거와 미래

The purpose of this paper is to analyze and highlight the realities and ideals contained in the text of the preamble to our constitution. Granted that the body of our constitution borrows heavily from numerous precursors, it should be noted, however, that our preamble is unique and original. Also, by incorporating our long history and tradition, the preamble reveals the evolutionary path traversed en route to the establishment of our constitution. Further, the preamble offers vision for how Korea, which effectively ushered in the modern era with the beginning of March 1 Independence Movement, must strive for democratic reforms, social justice, unification and peace, equal opportunity and individual freedom, and enduring world peace and contribution to mankind. In short, it is an “one sentence abstract of the constitution.”From its inception, our constitution has referred heavily to the ideals of a modern social state. Having fought and garnered the rights to individual liberty and democratic governance based on legislature from past military dictatorships, the constitution must contend with the society’s rights and the realization of the modern social state. The preamble, mirroring the universal values of our constitution, will continue to serve as a vehicle for helping lead the Korean citizenry on their way to becoming rightful global citizens beyond one’s own nationalism.