The South Korean government is currently deliberating on measures aimed at alleviating the burden of transfer taxes for multiple property owners, particularly focusing on properties occupied by tenants. With discussions ongoing between the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport, the government aims to facilitate housing sales while ensuring that the integrity of regulations meant to prevent speculative investments, known as 'gap investments,' is upheld. One proposed idea is to allow buyers a period of time before they must move in, thereby encouraging sales while safeguarding tenant rights.

One of the main plans involves extending the occupant's stay until the end of their lease term while still allowing for a buyer’s delayed move-in. This would provide stability for renters and potentially increase the number of available properties for sale. However, critics argue that this approach could undermine the intention of the regulations, as it effectively allows for a four-year period where gap investments could occur, sparking disputes about equity, especially when considering single-property owners who may feel excluded from similar benefits.

Alternatively, the government is considering a different strategy that would not account for the tenant's rights to renew their lease, instead limiting the grace period to the remaining time of the original lease. This approach acknowledges the current housing lease laws but raises concerns over the potential violation of tenant rights. Tenants who might have expected to renew their leases could find themselves displaced due to these proposed sales designed to relieve tax burdens for high-property owners. The path forward remains complex as the government weighs the various implications of these potential reforms.