Prime Minister Han Sung-sook toured a university-area studio-apartment district and a public dormitory during her first weekend in office, saying she would "prepare measures to expand the supply of dormitories and youth housing."
Han visited a studio-apartment district in the Sinchon area of Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, and a public dormitory in Hongje-dong, holding talks with young people who actually live there. The young people who attended the meeting said, "Monthly rent for studio apartments and other housing has risen so much that it is a big burden, and dormitories and public rental housing for young people are a great help," adding, "Since competition is fierce due to a shortage of supply, please dramatically increase the supply." Han responded, "I was able to see the housing conditions of young people firsthand and feel the difficulties caused by high housing costs," and said, "Through discussions between young people and relevant ministries including the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, the Ministry of Education, and the Prime Minister's Office, I will prepare specific measures to expand the supply of dormitories and youth housing."
The visit was Han's first weekend engagement after her appointment on Monday. At her confirmation hearing, she had also stressed the government's active role in resolving youth issues, saying, "Resolving the difficulties young people face is one of the most important tasks for a prime minister."
