‘1년 선거주 기간’ 수정 검토…‘갭투자 허용’ 신호될까 우려도

The government is reviewing modifications to the '1-year election period' provision in the recently proposed comprehensive residential and income tax law amendment. These modifications, which aim to expand the criteria for exempting certain categories of homebuyers from tax obligations, have received overwhelming public feedback - over 8,000 comments submitted by April 4.

The review focuses on the '1-year election' condition, which currently requires homeowners to have resided in their primary residence for a full year before qualifying for tax breaks. However, this requirement has come under scrutiny for being unrealistic, as factors like sudden job demands, illness treatment, overseas stays, or caring for elderly parents can interrupt a homeowner's residency for extended periods.

The government is contemplating a review of the minimum residency requirement, potentially lowering the threshold to allow for more flexibility. However, doing so may inadvertently signal 'gap investment' tolerance, where homeowners could temporarily abandon their primary residence and still qualify for tax benefits. The government is carefully considering this possibility and intends to carefully listen to public opinions before finalizing the modifications.

The review process is expected to conclude by April 20, with Prime Minister Yuin-chol and Finance Minister Kang acknowledging the need for public input and potential adjustments to the proposed law.