Land minister nominee vows close consultations with Seoul on housing supply

SEOUL, August 31 (Yonhap) -- The individual chosen to lead the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport pledged on Monday to engage in close dialogue with Seoul city authorities regarding housing supply initiatives. Hong Jee-sun, who currently serves as vice land minister, made the announcement the day following his appointment to succeed Land Minister Kim Yun-duk, who encountered opposition from Seoul city officials over a plan to allocate portions of Yongsan Park in central Seoul for housing construction.

Hong assured reporters en route to the government complex in Sejong that he would conduct adequate consultations with the Seoul city government beforehand to guarantee the successful execution of housing policies. He emphasized the significance of collaboration between central and local governments, drawing upon his expertise in housing and urban development policy during his tenure at the Gyeonggi Provincial Government.

"I intend to promptly deliver high-quality housing in areas where residents desire to reside, while placing particular emphasis on housing stability for young individuals and newlyweds," Hong stated.

The nominee is obligated to undergo a parliamentary confirmation hearing before President Lee Jae Myung officially appoints him as the minister.