[Korea Farmers Newspaper, Reporter Kim Kyung-wook] The "argument of NH Agricultural Cooperatives acquiring Homeplus" that has been intermittently raised since entering the corporate rehabilitation process last March has recently resurfaced, but both experts and those within the NH Agricultural Cooperatives are unanimous in saying that it is not valid. Under pressure from the political sphere and public opinion, Homeplus has put on hold its initial plan to close 15 stores. Kim Byeong-gi, floor leader of the Democratic Party of Korea, stated on the 19th after meeting with Kim Byeong-ju, chairman of MBK Partners, at the Homeplus Gangseo store, "It was decided not to close the store until a buyer is determined." Nevertheless, MBK, the largest shareholder of Homeplus and a private equity fund,