Seoul Mayor, Presidential Aide Discuss Housing Supply Amidst Policy Disagreements

Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon and Presidential Chief of Staff Kim Yong-beom held a luncheon meeting to discuss housing supply strategies, focusing on utilizing semi-industrial zones and releasing green belts within the city. The meeting aimed to align city and national policies ahead of the government's planned announcement of additional housing measures for the Seoul metropolitan area.

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We cannot proceed without the consent of the residents of Yongsan-gu.

While both sides agreed on the need to supply housing in Seoul's southwestern areas, like Yeongdeungpo and Guro, by easing regulations on semi-industrial zones, disagreements emerged regarding the scale of development for the Yongsan International Business District and the release of green belts. The city proposed a maximum of 8,000 housing units for Yongsan to maintain its international business function, contrasting with the government's initial plan of 10,000 units. Mayor Oh also expressed strong opposition to releasing green belts, citing resident consent and the need for national policy adjustments.

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Releasing the green belt is absolutely impossible.

The government, meanwhile, is accelerating plans for other housing projects, including the Taereung Golf Course and Gwacheon Racecourse, and considering the release of green belts around military facilities and state-owned land. They are also exploring the use of available school sites and idle land. The administration is focused on speeding up approvals and land compensation for new city developments and plans to support non-apartment housing supply. The presidential office is expected to review these comprehensive measures soon.

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We will go in the direction of releasing the green belt as much as possible.