By Kim Jae-heun
The United Nation's Special Rapporteur Leilani Farha has expressed concerns over rising housing inequality in Korea.
Farha visited Seoul last Monday at the invitation of the government to conduct a 10-day investigation.
The special rapporteur met with officials from government agencies including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport and the Ministry of Justice.
“Korea should change its recognition on housing not as an asset or commodity. Residential rights should be recognized equally with human rights,” said Farha during a discussion held at the Press Center in Jung-gu, Seoul.
“The Korean government is making various efforts to carry out its initiative on the rights to housing. But I felt that there needs momentum to truly observe the human rights here.”
Farha expressed her concerns over unceasing large-scale reconstruction here that is driving out the locals and destroying the community.
She argued compulsory eviction, permitted by the courts, is a violation of the international human rights law.
The special rapporteur also pointed out that the government should provide accommodation and the minimum cost of living to homeless people by 2030.
“The government should furthermore take the lead in protecting minorities in the country such as disabled people, immigrant workers and homosexuals,” Farha said.
She also argued the Korean government should implement rental regulations to guarantee stability for residents.
“Efforts are need to improve the residential environment in towns with compact rooms too. Also, raising wages for households should be reviewed, considering the rising living costs,” Farha said.
Her investigation report will be submitted to the United Nations.