Homeplus Reopens with Political Support as CEO Vows Full Recovery

"Homeplus has risen again with the support of the public. We will repay this with complete recovery and a new leap forward."

Jo Joo-yeon, CEO of Homeplus, made this statement during a press conference and shopping campaign held at the Homeplus Gangseo store in Seoul on August 13. He emphasized that both management and labor will concentrate all efforts for a sustainable future for Homeplus.

However, he acknowledged that there are still many challenges ahead before achieving full operational normalization. Jo noted, "A significant task remains next month with the passage of the recovery plan, and a normal merger and acquisition must take place to finalize the recovery. I believe that the creditors and the court will make a reasonable decision to revitalize the local economy."
 

On the reopening day, residents flocked to the Gangseo store, forming a line of about 10 meters before the store opened. Customers eagerly gathered at the beef counter, bringing shopping carts, and the store buzzed with activity. Attendees of the press conference and joint labor-management declaration also participated in shopping, pushing carts through the aisles.

Lawmakers also joined the shopping campaign. Han Byeong-do, acting leader of the Democratic Party and floor leader, along with Han Jeong-ae, chair of the policy committee, and Min Byeong-deok, head of the Euljiro committee, visited the site to support the Homeplus shopping campaign.

Acting leader Han stated, "The reopening marks the first step in Homeplus's revival. I urge many citizens to join in sharing hope by shopping at Homeplus." He added, "The National Assembly, government, and local governments will work together to ensure Homeplus's recovery."

Min Byeong-deok remarked, "It has been 15 months since Homeplus became 'Homeminus.' Now, this is a matter affecting 300,000 livelihoods, so I urge the public to actively participate in saving Homeplus." He acknowledged that while large supermarkets can pose challenges for small businesses, this situation is entirely different and encouraged people to shop at Homeplus for their evening meals.

The ruling party's support for Homeplus will continue with a relay shopping campaign at stores nationwide. On August 14, Democratic Party lawmaker Song Ok-joo will visit the Hwaseong Hyangnam store, while Kim Nam-geun will go to the Wolgok store to participate in the shopping campaign.