Lee Jae-myung asks "Do you believe that privileges should be maintained for multi-homeowners?" directed at Jang Dong-hyuk
South Korean President Lee Jae-myung questions the ruling party leader's stance on multi-home ownership and privileges amid ongoing housing issues.
On the early morning of October 16, South Korean President Lee Jae-myung directed a pointed question at Jang Dong-hyuk, the head of the ruling People Power Party, regarding the treatment of multi-homeowners. Lee asked if the party believes that they should not regulate these property owners and whether they should continue to benefit from existing financial and tax advantages. This comment followed criticisms from the opposition party, who suggested Lee should sell his apartment instead of holding onto it while simultaneously commenting on the ownership of multiple properties by Jang, who reportedly owns six homes. Lee discussed the significant social problems arising from speculative real estate practices, including skyrocketing housing prices that are adversely affecting societal structures such as marriage and economic competitiveness.
In his message, Lee remarked on the broader responsibilities that the government should take concerning the privileges afforded to multi-homeowners, asserting that such advantages should be reassessed given their negative impact on society. He highlighted the fact that excessive speculation drives housing scarcity and leads to negative repercussions, thereby questioning the ethics surrounding multi-home ownership. He further challenged the People's Power Party to reconsider their stance in light of the current housing crisis in South Korea, characterized by concentrated urban development and rampant real estate speculation.
The exchange underscores a growing tension between the ruling and opposition parties concerning housing policies in South Korea, especially in a context where many citizens face difficulties in purchasing homes. Lee’s emphasis on the need for regulatory reform on multi-homeownership suggests a potential shift toward more stringent housing policies, aiming to alleviate the societal fallout caused by real estate speculation and ensure fair access to housing for all citizens.