[사설] 국토장관·서울시장, 공급대책 이견 좁혀 나가야 한다

On the 20th, the head of the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, Kim Yoon-duck, and Seoul Mayor O Se-hoon met to discuss expanding housing supply in Seoul. Despite finding some common ground, they were unable to narrow their differences on most points. They agreed to meet again next week.

While they found points of convergence, such as utilizing unused public land around Yeouindo Park, they still widely diverged on key issues. Mayor O pushed back against the government's plan to build youth housing in Yeouindo Park, arguing that even a limited supply would be unacceptable. In contrast, the government argued that the current Yeouindo Park Conservation Special Law was designed to preserve not just green spaces, but the entire park.

However, the mayor did agree to a compromise: using some surrounding public land for housing. The scale may be limited, but it represents a significant step forward and Seoul should move quickly to begin the project. The park's original land should be developed as originally envisioned, but this needs public discussion and cannot be rushed.

The government's plan to expand the 'Seoul International Business Zone' to include 1,000 more units is welcome, but it took over half a year to reach this point and there was no resolution.

In the meantime, the situation continues to deteriorate. Mayor O has called for further relaxing of restrictions on youth home loans, a move Seoul has already taken steps to implement in the 8-13 package. However, any additional relaxation should be carefully considered. The mayor also reiterated his support for the re-zoning of redevelopment and reconstruction rates, as well as the temporary easing of limits for government bonds. However, these proposals will ultimately be decided by the central government.

The final resolution of housing supply is ultimately the responsibility of the central government. It is necessary to reach a consensus, then act swiftly. Delayed housing supply will directly impact young people and low-income families. In their next meeting, the two leaders must reach more conclusions to ease the concerns of the public.