Homeplus reopens stores to eager crowds with deep discounts

Homeplus stores across South Korea reopened their doors on June 13th after a temporary closure, drawing large crowds of eager shoppers. All 67 previously shuttered locations resumed operations, with 59 of them also reactivating their online sales channels. The reopening was accompanied by a major promotional event designed to attract customers back with significant discounts on popular items.

Shoppers were seen queuing before the 10 a.m. opening at the Homeplus Gangseo branch in Seoul, with many heading straight for heavily discounted products. Korean beef was offered at up to 50% off, and pork belly was available for 40% off, priced at 1,980 won (per 100g). Other popular food items, including seafood, fruits, snacks, and beverages, were also included in the "buy one, get one free" or up to 50% discount offers, which are set to continue until the end of June.

The scene at the Gangseo store highlighted the strong customer response. Many shoppers arrived with empty carts, which were quickly filled. The demand for shopping carts was so high that the usual spot for them near the second-floor entrance was notably empty. Some customers, like a young couple with a baby, were seen discussing their shopping lists while navigating the busy aisles. Another shopper, whose child was sitting in the shopping cart, remarked on the crowd, considering buying only toys due to the high volume of people.

The reopening signifies a new chapter for the retail chain, which had temporarily suspended operations. The large-scale sales event aims to re-engage customers and boost sales following the hiatus. The enthusiastic turnout suggests a strong consumer appetite for the offered discounts, with many customers actively seeking out the best deals, even pausing to check promotional displays for specific items like snacks.