Democratic Party to pursue hearing on Homeplus crisis, criticizes MBK and Meritz

South Korea's Democratic Party announced its intention to pursue a parliamentary hearing concerning the ongoing crisis at the retail giant Homeplus. The party expressed strong criticism towards MBK and Meritz, the company's financial backers, accusing them of "solely focusing on evading responsibility" despite the severe repercussions.

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Homeplus situation hearing will be pushed for.

Han Byung-do, the acting leader and parliamentary leader of the Democratic Party, stated that the Homeplus situation has inflicted "enormous damage" on approximately 13,000 workers and their families, as well as on affiliated businesses, suppliers, the local community, consumers, and the public at large. He emphasized that bankruptcy proceedings are imminent, yet MBK and Meritz remain passive.

Following Han's directive, the party is moving forward with plans to hold the hearing, tentatively scheduled for July 27. The aim is to thoroughly investigate the truth behind the crisis, hold responsible parties accountable, protect workers' livelihoods, support affected businesses, and safeguard the local economy. The party indicated it would proceed with the hearing even if the rival People Power Party declines to participate.

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MBK and Meritz are still passively focusing on evading responsibility.

In a separate but related matter, the Democratic Party also urged the People Power Party to cooperate in forming the parliamentary standing committees for the 22nd National Assembly, criticizing their previous actions in the previous parliamentary term.

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We plan to push for it even if the People Power Party does not attend.