(EDITORIAL from Korea Times on Aug. 11)

Rep. Hwang Hee's ill-advised proposal to transform retired buses into temporary student housing sparked backlash among younger Koreans. Hwang, a former culture minister, suggested recycling buses to address the shortage of affordable homes for university students, drawing inspiration from Amsterdam's houseboats. However, the proposal was met with ridicule, with young people accusing Hwang of treating them like refugees rather than citizens.

The idea, while not outrageous on its own, became particularly tone-deaf at a time when the government is grappling with declining approval ratings among younger voters, who face high housing costs and limited opportunities. Hwang's proposal, which drew criticism from across the political spectrum, exposed a deeper issue: the disconnect between politicians and the aspirations of younger Koreans who seek stable, affordable, and decent housing.