Homeplus CEO Vows Full Recovery Amid Support from Lawmakers

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

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

However, he acknowledged that many challenges remain before achieving full operational normalization. Jo stated, "A significant task remains next month with the passage of the recovery plan, and a normal merger and acquisition must occur to finalize the normalization process. 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 approximately 10 meters long before the store opened. Customers with shopping carts gathered around the beef section, bringing a lively atmosphere to the store. Attendees of the press conference and joint labor-management declaration also participated by pushing carts and purchasing products.

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 normalization."

Min Byeong-deok noted, "It has been 15 months since Homeplus became 'Homeminus.' Now, this is a matter affecting 300,000 livelihoods, and 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, urging, "Please consider Homeplus for your dinner tonight."

The ruling party's support for Homeplus will continue with a relay of shopping campaigns at stores nationwide. On August 14, Democratic Party lawmakers Song Ok-joo and Kim Nam-geun are scheduled to visit the Hwaseong Hyangnam and Wolgok stores, respectively, to participate in the shopping campaign.