A call was made to activate public housing "Everyone's Safe Dwellings" considering the life cycle related to changes in population structure.
This statement was made at a policy discussion forum for "Everyone's Safe Dwellings" held by the Seoul Housing and Community Corporation (SH Corporation), the Seoul Metropolitan Council, and the Korea Urban Planners Association on the 24th.
Attendees noted, "We need to activate a new concept of public housing where all classes can reside safely, and enhance sustainability through public-private cooperation."
The forum was organized to discuss measures to activate "Everyone's Safe Dwellings" in response to changes in population structure such as low birth rates, youth housing insecurity, and entry into a super-aged society.
Safe dwellings are a new model of public housing that integrates the development and supply of safe dwellings and rental-style dormitories for youth, seniors, and newlyweds based on the Special Act on Private Rental Housing. It aims to create a residential environment where all classes can safely reside.
During the forum, Kim Ki-jung, a principal researcher at SH Urban Research Institute, presented on "Characteristics of Youth Safe Dwellings and Future Improvement Directions," while Professor Seowon of Chung-Ang University discussed "Understanding Overseas Dwellings for the Elderly and Policy Implications: Focusing on the U.S. Case."
Kim noted, "Safe dwellings are a project where the public and private sectors cooperate to supply public housing in urban areas, emphasizing the need for policy adjustments such as improving rent calculation methods and increasing the ratio of pre-purchase and sale to enhance the conditions for private business operators amid a downturn in the construction market."
Professor Seowon also stated, "In the United States, Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRC) provide integrated residential and welfare services tailored to the health conditions of the elderly," adding, "There is a need for a role as housing within urban areas for preparing for 'the second life' in Korea."
Afterward, Chairperson Kim Tae-soo of the Seoul Metropolitan Council's Housing and Space Committee led a panel discussion with Professor Lee Chang-hyo of Hanbat National University, Lee Jeong-hoon, the External Cooperation Representative of IGIS Asset Management, Commissioner Kim Jong-gil, Director Kim Byeong-yeon of SH Urban Research Institute, and Director Choi Won-seok of the Seoul Metropolitan Government's Strategic Housing Supply Division on strategies for activating safe dwellings.
Professor Lee Chang-hyo remarked, "Everyone's Safe Dwellings symbolize a paradigm shift in policy, encompassing various classes beyond specific groups."
Representative Lee Jeong-hoon commented, "The private sector faces challenges in promoting projects due to rising costs and financial risks," stating that "incentives for floor area ratio, expansion of loan products, and one-stop administrative support must be in place."
Commissioner Kim Jong-gil stated, "To expand customized supply for consumers, it is necessary to consider new target areas such as semi-industrial zones and restructure the business model," adding, "Efforts to improve proximity between living and working conditions are essential."
Director Kim Byeong-yeon emphasized, "Urban dwellings for the elderly should be pursued as a national-level population response policy rather than a city issue," highlighting the need for data-driven policy design that considers regional demand.
Director Choi Won-seok mentioned, "In light of the recent surge in construction and finance costs, we are reviewing methods for recalculating rental fees, which are a substantial operating expense for private business operators," adding, "It is a crucial time for proactive discussions on transitioning to public rental after the expiration of rental obligations."
President Hwang Sang-ha of SH Corporation asserted, "Everyone's Safe Dwellings is an important public housing policy that reflects the characteristics and housing needs of each household," stressing, "Building a cooperative framework among participants is essential for the success of the project."