[사설] 부동산세제, 보완할 건 보완하되 공정과세 기조 지켜야

The ongoing revision of the property tax system is facing significant criticism, with nearly 4,000 opposing opinions submitted to the government within the 20-day legislative preview period. The core of the reform lies in differentiating taxes for living and non-living properties. For single-family homes, living property tax will increase from 12 billion won to 14 billion won, while non-living property tax will decrease from 9 billion won to 8 billion won.

Non-living properties will not benefit from inheritance tax exemptions or capital gains tax deductions. This change is bound to generate resistance due to the increased burden for non-living property owners and reduced benefits upon inheritance. In response to the growing criticism, the ruling Democratic Party has formalized further discussions on the tax reform and pledged to explore possible adjustments.

However, the public may find the proposed adjustments confusing and contradictory after several rounds of deliberations. The government must not only address the various criticisms but also ensure that its decisions align with the underlying principle of fairness and equal taxation. It is crucial for the government to adopt a flexible approach, acknowledging legitimate reasons for non-living property residents to be classified as living, such as education, job changes, family care, or prolonged stays abroad.

The government should also consider extending the period beyond 3 years in certain cases. Additionally, while the short-term objective of the reform is to stabilize real estate prices, the long-term goal should aim to minimize the disparity in tax burdens between living and non-living property owners, and promote equitable taxation.