[Anchor]

Kim Yong-beom, Chief of Staff for Policy at the Blue House, announced that plans to establish a second semiconductor complex in regions outside the capital area, such as the Honam region, are in the final stages. He clarified that this does not involve relocating the existing semiconductor complex in Yongin, Gyeonggi Province, but rather finding new sites. A large-scale regional investment plan is expected to be announced around the 29th.

Reporter Kang Min-u has the story.

[Reporter]

During an invitational debate hosted by the Kwanhun Club today (June 24), Kim Yong-beom, Chief of Staff for Policy at the Blue House, was asked whether new semiconductor complexes for Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix would be built in regions like Honam. He responded by noting that the explosive growth in semiconductor demand necessitates accelerating the construction of previously planned facilities.

[Kim Yong-beom/Chief of Staff for Policy at the Blue House: There is no more room in the capital area. There is no land, and power and water supplies are impossible. We are facing the dilemma of having to find a 'second cluster.']

However, he emphasized that this would absolutely not involve relocating the semiconductor complex in Yongin, Gyeonggi Province, to other regions.

Kim stated that related discussions are in the final stages, and specific plans are expected to be unveiled alongside the "Regional Balanced Development Investment Strategy" announcement on the 29th.

According to SBS reporting, the investment plans are expected to include AI semiconductor projects in Gwangju and Asan, South Chungcheong Province, and aerospace projects in the Yeongnam region.

Regarding real estate policy, Kim mentioned the "supply cliff" and remarked as follows:

[Kim Yong-beom/Chief of Staff for Policy at the Blue House: We must build, no matter what. I believe we need to discuss special measures to increase supply.]

When asked about the direction of real estate tax reform, he said, "We are running hundreds of simulations," adding, "Property taxes vary by country, and we intend to set them at a level that is acceptable."

In this regard, the Blue House announced that it is preparing a public debate on real estate policy.

Following his remarks on the importance of solving youth housing issues, youth employment, and startup support, Kim also emphasized the need for dialogue with the younger generation regarding the issue of extending the retirement age.

[Kim Yong-beom/Chief of Staff for Policy at the Blue House: Given our demographic composition, it is naturally correct to extend the retirement age. But, if we continue with the current seniority-based system, will our youth generation agree to it?]

The strengthening of youth policies and the announcement of large-scale regional balanced development plans are also being interpreted as moves to reverse the decline in the government's approval rating following the local elections.

(Video reporting: Jeong Sang-bo, Ha Ryung | Video editing: Park Ji-in | Graphics: Kim Min-young)