Seoul Lawmaker Proposes Itaewon Site for Housing, Criticizes Mayor's Opposition

Kim Young-bae, a leading figure in the Democratic Party and its Seoul chapter chairman, has proposed that the government consider the National Treasury Management Service site in Itaewon as an additional location for housing development in Seoul. This suggestion emerges as the administration is reportedly examining the Yongsan Children's Garden as a potential site for public rental housing, particularly for young people.

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I am aware that it is being additionally reviewed as a housing supply site.

Speaking on a radio program, Kim stated that he is aware the National Treasury Management Service site is among those being additionally reviewed for housing supply. He indicated that detailed assessments, including administrative procedures, are underway. This proposal follows comments from Kwak Young-se, a People Power Party lawmaker representing Yongsan, who suggested sites like the Itaewon National Treasury Management Service land, the Foreign Ministry parking lot, and the Bank of Korea's living quarters in Huam-dong as alternatives to developing the Yongsan park.

Kim emphasized the critical need for housing solutions for single and two-person households, which constitute a significant portion of Seoul's population. He warned that without structural measures to address their housing needs, Seoul could face challenges in retaining young residents and achieving its goals as a global city. He views the ongoing discussions on youth housing and overall housing supply as essential for enhancing Seoul's urban competitiveness on the international stage.

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To only call for supply through redevelopment and reconstruction is, in my view, merely an argument that reinforces another vested interest.

Kim also directed criticism at Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon, who has opposed the development of the Yongsan park for housing, citing the need for green space preservation. Kim characterized the mayor's stance, which focuses on easing redevelopment and reconstruction regulations, as merely reinforcing vested interests and an 'unreasoned opposition.' Kim revealed that he has scheduled a meeting with Mayor Oh to discuss these matters, expressing hope for a magnanimous decision from the mayor for the benefit of the citizens.

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I have arranged to meet with Mayor Oh Se-hoon soon. We will have sufficient consultations and discussions to reach a good conclusion, and I hope Mayor Oh Se-hoon will make a magnanimous decision for the citizens.