Transport Minister nominee Kim Hyun-mee says she is taking the issue of rising housing prices seriously, especially as the real estate market is overheating in areas like Seoul.

Kim made the comments in her written answers for her parliamentary confirmation hearing set for Thursday.

The ruling Democratic Party lawmaker voiced opposition to easing mortgage regulations such as the loan-to-value and debt-to-income ratios, as they have led to increased household debts.

Regarding spiraling prices of jeonse, or deposit-based rentals, Kim promised to introduce in stages a system under which tenants can demand renewal of their housing lease contracts and put ceilings on rental prices and monthly rent.