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When it comes to food franchises, there are a lot of options on the menu. From burgers to boba, the choices are enough to make any entrepreneur’s head spin. Behind every thriving restaurant franchise is a recipe for success that starts with asking the right questions.

Hungry to dive into your first food franchise or add a flavorful new concept to your portfolio? These six questions will help you find the franchise opportunity you’ve been craving.

1. Do You Actually Enjoy the Food?

If you’re going to spend your time and energy building a business, choose one with a menu you’d be proud to serve. Food isn’t just fuel. It brings people together, and it should be something you genuinely enjoy.

Before investing in a food franchise, ask yourself: Would I crave this? Would I bring friends here? Would I proudly recommend it to my community?

Many of our franchise partners started out as Bonchon’s biggest fans. After all, our famous Korean fried chicken recipe isn’t just crispy — it’s crave-inducing. Our signature soy garlic and spicy sauces are steeped in Korean tradition and perfected for modern palates. If you love bold, flavor-packed food, this could be your perfect pairing.

2. What Kind of Operational Commitment Are You Ready For?

Running a successful restaurant can require a greater level of commitment than other franchise models. Service hours stretch into the evenings and weekends, the kitchen is always buzzing, and quality control can’t slip.

Are you prepared to be behind the line during dinner rushes? Are you comfortable managing staff, maintaining food safety standards, and keeping pace with delivery demands?

Restaurant owners seeking the full food service experience will love Bonchon’s hands-on model. Franchising with Bonchon means you’ll get a taste of managing the day-to-day operations of your restaurant. As you expand to multiple locations, our dedicated training and support systems will help ensure smooth operations and consistent quality across all your stores.

3. Does the Menu Offer Broad and Lasting Appeal?

Great food franchises go beyond trends — they become traditions. A well-structured menu will strike a balance between bold, signature dishes and everyday favorites, offering something familiar yet unforgettable. Look for franchises that have stood the test of time, not food fads that will fade before they’ve even found their footing.

Bonchon’s menu hits that sweet spot. Since 2006, our Korean fried chicken recipe has been captivating taste buds worldwide. Our menu is always expanding with new and innovative flavors, so there’s no shortage of new things to try. Whether guests are popping in for lunch, ordering takeout for the game, or sitting down with the family, Bonchon consistently delivers on taste, variety, and consistency.

4. Is the Brand Built for the Modern Food Experience?

Today’s diners are digitally driven and flavor-focused. They expect convenience at their fingertips, crave-worthy food and packaging that looks good on camera, and brands that show up on social media.

Is the food franchise you’re considering tech-savvy? Does it offer online ordering, third-party delivery, and a strong digital presence? Is the packaging built for transport? Does the brand pop on Instagram?

Good news: Bonchon checks all these boxes. Our tech stack is constantly evolving to implement new solutions, like self-service kiosks that offer a user-friendly ordering experience. Bonchon is always exploring new ways to connect with diners — both online and off.

5. What’s the Local Demand for This Type of Concept?

Even the most delicious dish won’t sell if the market isn’t hungry for it. Before committing, research your area:

• Are people adventurous with their food choices? Unique concepts like Bonchon have an advantage in college towns and other communities seeking bold, global flavors.
• Is there a gap in that particular type of cuisine? You’ll want to avoid competing against too many big players in your same market.
• Are consumers loyal to delivery-friendly options? Look for trends in takeout and delivery demand. Franchises with strong off-premise performance capture more sales more often.

Bonchon’s appeal is widespread but can adapt easily to local demand. When you invest in the leading Korean fried chicken franchise, you’ll likely face little direct competition in a market hungry for something new. Our flexible store formats let you tailor your approach, too. Whether your diners demand a delivery-first model or a dine-in experience, you can meet them where they are.

Dig Into This Food Franchise Opportunity

The food franchise world is full of flavor, but it’s important to make sure the investment you choose aligns with your palate, business goals, and lifestyle.

With bold flavors, a time-tested model, and support that will leave you as satisfied as our chicken, Bonchon offers a fresh take on food franchising. Craving more info? Connect with our franchise development team to discover how you can bring a global favorite to your community.

Ever wanted to open your own restaurant? You’re not alone. A lot of entrepreneurs dream of running a food spot that serves up their favorite dishes. For many aspiring restaurant owners, franchising is a practical option that offers structure, support, and a streamlined path to success.

So, how does franchising work? It’s simpler than you might think — especially when you have a brand like Bonchon backing you up. Here’s what you need to know to step into the world of food franchising. 

What Exactly Is Franchising?

Franchising is a business model where you invest in a brand with a proven track record. In return, you get the tools, training, and support to open a location (or several!) of your own under the brand name. 

In the restaurant industry, that means you don’t need to stress about building the perfect menu, designing your own logo, or figuring out your operations through trial and error. Instead, you benefit from a proven franchise system. 

How Does Food Franchising Work?

You don’t need an MBA to understand how franchising works. Here’s what to expect when you decide to invest in a restaurant franchise like Bonchon.

Step 1: Do Your Research

Start by thinking about your goals. What kind of restaurant franchise is right for you? Taking time to ask yourself the right questions before investing in a franchise can help you find a brand that aligns with your vision. Our advice? Choose a franchise with strong brand recognition, franchisee support, and a menu that you genuinely love. No two Bonchon owners are exactly alike, but they all have one thing in common: they go crazy for our Korean fried chicken. 

Step 2: Review the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD)

The FDD lays out everything you need to know about going into business with your chosen franchise. From costs and royalties to franchisee support and training, it should answer many of your questions. 

It’s important to find a franchise that is transparent about its process. At Bonchon, the path to ownership includes frequent touchpoints with our franchise development team — plus a dedicated review of the FDD to ensure your questions are answered.

Step 3: Figure Out Franchise Financing

Most people don’t pay for a franchise restaurant entirely out of pocket. That’s where SBA loans, traditional bank financing, or private investors come in. The right funding option will depend on your financial situation, credit history, and long-term business goals. Your franchisor can help connect you with financing partners and walk you through what the initial investment typically looks like.

Step 4: Secure Your Restaurant Real Estate

Once you’ve secured financing, it’s time to sign the franchise agreement and lock in your location. This is when you’ll really begin to see your restaurant business come to life. 

At Bonchon, we work closely with every franchisee as they navigate the site selection process. We also offer multiple restaurant concepts, so you can choose the setup that matches your market and goals. 

Step 5: Get Trained

It’s time to learn the ropes of running your own restaurant! Comprehensive franchise training will cover day-to-day operations, hiring, customer service, marketing, and more. Ask about the level of training and support offered by your chosen franchise early on — it helps to have a dedicated team that’s with you every step of the way.

Step 6: Open Your Doors

With training under your belt and your restaurant ready to launch, it’s time to open your doors. But just because your food franchise is up and running doesn’t mean you’re on your own. The best franchisors provide ongoing support when you need it. From day one, we offer hands-on guidance to help with local promotions, seasonal marketing, store operations, and more.

Restaurant Franchising FAQs

How profitable is a restaurant franchise?

There’s no magic number. The profitability of your food franchise will depend on the success of the brand, market demand, and how well you manage it. Luckily, franchise restaurants like Bonchon come with built-in demand, thanks to years of developing fan-favorite flavors. 

The FDD should also provide insight into the earning potential of your chosen franchise. For example, Bonchon’s FDD reports an Average Unit Volume (AUV) of $2,462,634 for the highest-performing 25% of locations* — but your restaurant’s results can vary due to a variety of factors.

Do restaurant franchise owners earn a salary?

Most restaurant franchise owners don’t earn a traditional salary. Instead, your income will come through business profits. Once your expenses — that includes food and labor costs, rent, marketing costs, royalties, and other franchise fees — are covered, you can pay yourself from what remains. 

Can you make a living owning a restaurant franchise?

Absolutely! And many people do. It all depends on your commitment to the business, demand in your market, and the strength of the franchise brand. Bonchon franchisees often operate multiple locations, scaling their business to build long-term income.

Do franchise owners have to work?

Like any successful business owner, you can expect to put a lot of work into your restaurant — especially early on. Bonchon is not a passive ownership model. From managing staff to ensuring exceptional customer service, our franchisees take an active role in the daily operations of their restaurant locations. But being hands-on doesn’t have to mean being bogged down. For those who enjoy the pace and purpose of running a restaurant, the day-to-day can feel incredibly rewarding.

Is it better to start my own restaurant or buy a franchise?

That depends on your risk tolerance. Starting from scratch gives you complete control over your business, but it also comes with risks. There’s no guarantee that the time and money you put in to building your own brand will pay off, and you’ll miss out on the head start that comes from inheriting a proven business model. When you invest in a restaurant franchise like Bonchon, you benefit from built-in brand recognition and support to help you grow faster.

A Restaurant Franchise That Works for You

You already love our restaurants. Now, imagine running one (or more!) of your own. 

Bonchon isn’t just another fried chicken restaurant. It’s a global brand built on bold flavors, exceptional quality, and a commitment to stellar service. When you join our franchise family, you’re joining a system that’s already been fine-tuned for success.

How does franchising with us work? Here’s what you’ll get:

• An iconic restaurant brand with loyal fans around the world
• Proven recipes, systems, and day-to-day tools that work
• Comprehensive training and onboarding resources
• Marketing support and a scalable business model

We make it easy for new franchisees to get started. And we stay by your side as you grow. Ready to turn your favorite restaurant into your next business venture? Let’s talk.

*These figures reflect the average gross revenue performance (by quartile) for 123 of the 143 Bonchon franchised restaurants that were in operation from January 1, 2024, through December 31, 2024 (each, a “matured franchised restaurant”), as published in Item 19 of our Franchise Disclosure Document issued on March 5, 2025 (as amended March 13, 2025). The footnotes for each of the AUV figures appear at the bottom of this page. All of the footnotes for the AUV disclosure (including the one above) should appear at the bottom of this page.

1. As of December 31, 2024, 30 of the 123 matured franchised restaurants performed in the highest 25%. Of those, 13 (or 43%) met or exceeded the average annual gross revenues, with the highest annual gross revenues earned being $3,737,313 and the lowest being $1,818,731.
2. As of December 31, 2024, 31 of the 123 matured franchised restaurants performed in the second highest 25%. Of those, 13 (or 42%) met or exceeded the average annual gross revenues, with the highest annual gross revenues earned being $1,771,127 and the lowest being $1,374,960.
3. As of December 31, 2024, 31 of the 123 matured franchised restaurants performed in the third highest 25%. Of those, 16 (or 52%) met or exceeded the average annual gross revenues, with the highest annual gross revenues earned being $1,358,173 and the lowest being $1,049,155.
4. As of December 31, 2024, 31 of the 123 matured franchised restaurants performed in the lowest 25%. Of those, 18 (or 58%) met or exceeded the average annual gross revenues, with the highest annual gross revenues earned being $1,025,253 and the lowest being $308,574.

Owning a restaurant franchise can be a rewarding opportunity, but with so many options on the menu, it’s important to do your research. Not all franchises offer the same level of support, flexibility, and long-term potential. To set yourself up for success, you need to make sure the franchise you choose is right for you.

So, how do you choose the right franchise? By asking the right questions.

There are two important conversations you need to have before investing in a restaurant franchise. The first is with yourself, to make sure you choose a franchise that meets your goals and budget. The second is with your franchisor, to ensure the brand is aligned with your business goals. 

In this guide, the Bonchon team has rounded up some of the most important questions we often hear from franchisees. By the end, you’ll have the knowledge you need to make an informed investment.

Questions to Ask Yourself Before Franchising a Restaurant

1. Am I financially ready to invest?

Starting a franchise requires plenty of passion, but it also requires the funds to get your business up and running. Every restaurant franchise comes with initial investment costs, franchise fees, and ongoing expenses you’ll need to consider.

Before you commit, ask yourself:

• Do I have the capital to cover startup costs and sustain operations in the first year?
• How much am I comfortable spending on ongoing fees like royalties and marketing contributions?
• Should I explore financing options or loans to help with the investment?

Make sure the numbers add up! A smart investment means choosing a franchise with solid return potential — not one that drains your resources before you’ve even gotten off the ground. We always offer franchisees a transparent cost breakdown and dedicated support, so you’ll have all the right tools to make your investment pay off.

2. Does this franchise align with my strengths and interests?

Running a restaurant is hands-on work! You don’t need to be a trained chef to run a successful franchise, but you should be a natural leader with a passion for food, people, and hospitality.

Are you comfortable managing employees, daily operations, and customer experience? Or is a semi-absentee franchise model more your speed? Our franchisees are hands-on owners who are excited about being involved in the day-to-day operations of their restaurants. 

And, of course, if you don’t love the product you’re serving, why would your customers? It’s important to choose a restaurant franchise that you genuinely enjoy and are proud to serve. Our franchisees come from all backgrounds, but what they have in common is a love for Korean food, consistent quality, and working with people. 

3. Is there a market for this franchise in my area?

Your franchise can’t succeed if there’s no demand for your product. Before you invest, look into local competition and customer demand. Is your product trending in your area? (Hint: If it’s Korean fried chicken, it probably is!) 

At Bonchon, we provide site selection support so you can build your business in a high-traffic, high-demand location. Plus, with the brand anticipated to grow from 150 to 500 U.S. locations by 2030, our franchisees know they’re investing in a concept with proven demand.

4. What are my long-term business goals?

Try to think beyond opening day — where do you see your business in five to ten years? If you’re interested in opening more locations in the future, try to choose a restaurant franchise like Bonchon that offers support and scalability for multi-unit operators. The right franchise will support your growth, not hold you back.

Questions to Ask the Franchisor Before Investing

1. What kind of support and training do they provide?

One of the biggest benefits of franchising is that you’re not alone. At least, you shouldn’t be! Don’t be afraid to ask the franchisor to explain how they support franchisees in the following areas:

• Site selection and comprehensive training before opening
• Ongoing operational support and marketing resources
• Access to a network of franchisees for guidance

We’re committed to providing Bonchon franchisees with world-class support every step of the way. With our white glove concierge program, you’ll receive a dedicated Franchise Business Coach to help you with everything from picking the perfect location to navigating day-to-day operations.

2. What are the total costs and franchise fees?

No one likes hidden fees, so transparency is key. You should review the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) with the franchisor to be sure you understand any initial franchise fees, construction costs, furniture, fixtures and equipment, and ongoing costs such as rent, royalties and marketing contributions, and miscellaneous costs such as technology fees and maintenance expenses. 

While the FDD should provide a detailed breakdown, your costs could vary based on local operating expenses. It’s a good idea to ask the franchisor for a full cost estimate. We also recommend asking to speak to current franchisees. Talking to other owners can help you understand the actual financial expectations and any day-to-day challenges that come with franchising. 

3. How strong is the brand’s reputation and growth potential?

Brand recognition matters. A major advantage of franchising is that you benefit from an established brand name with a loyal following. Instead of starting from scratch, the right franchise can help your business take off quickly. 

Ask the franchisor to explain the brand’s Unique Selling Proposition (USP). You should already have an idea of what you like about the product, but they should be able to explain what makes their brand stand out in a crowded market. Now is also a good time to ask about plans for future expansion and long-term growth. The brand could be having a moment now, but how does the franchisor plan to stay on top?

4. What are the terms of the franchise agreement?

It may not be as exciting as the latest novel, but it’s important to read and understand your franchise agreement from start to finish. 

Before you sign, make sure to ask about the following:

• Territory rights: Will you receive exclusive rights in your area?
• Development terms: How many restaurants, and in what time frame?
• Renewal terms: How long is the contract, and what happens when it ends?
• Exit strategy: What will happen if you need to sell the business in the future?

Our franchise agreements are designed to support your long-term success, with clear terms to protect you and your investment. Make sure the franchise you choose has your long-term interests in mind. 

Why Bonchon? The Right Franchise for the Right Investor

Choosing the right franchise starts with finding a brand you believe in and a system that supports your success.

Here’s a taste of what Bonchon has to offer:

• A unique Korean fried chicken and food concept with a recipe that customers love
• A white glove concierge program so you feel supported every step of the process
• A scalable business model and multi-unit incentives to help you grow your business

Ready to invest in a franchise that you’ll love to own as much as customers love to eat? Bonchon is the franchise opportunity you’ve been looking for. Take the first step toward franchise ownership today!

It’s crispy. It’s flavorful. It’s utterly addictive—and it’s no wonder Korean fried chicken has taken the culinary world by storm. What started as a simple street food has become a global sensation, winning over food lovers with its signature crunch and bold flavors. But how did this dish go from being a local favorite to an international phenomenon? 

Let’s dive into the history behind this popular dish and learn how Bonchon is bringing Korean fried chicken into the future. 

The Origins of Korean Fried Chicken

The idea for Korean fried chicken was first hatched in the 1950s during the Korean War. At the time, chicken in Korea was usually boiled, stewed, or grilled, but when American troops stationed in South Korea introduced the method of deep-frying chicken to locals, a new food fad was born. 

While the crispy, flavorful chicken was an instant hit, it would be several years before the concept really took off in South Korea. The increasing availability of cooking oil in the years following the war made frying a more accessible method of cooking, and many vendors jumped at the opportunity to sell Korean fried chicken. By the 1970s, freshly deep-fried whole chickens could be found for sale in many Korean markets and on street corners.

It was around this time that diners also discovered a delicious new pairing. Korean fried chicken became a key component of chimaek (치맥), a term combining the words chikin (치킨, fried chicken) and maekju (맥주, beer). Enjoyed as a late-night snack, post-work treat, or game-day staple, chimaek helped cement fried chicken’s place in Korean culinary tradition.

The Evolution of Korean Fried Chicken

The signature crispiness of Korean fried chicken comes from a unique frying technique that enhances its delicate, crackly texture. Many recipes use methods such as double-frying to achieve a lighter, crunchier bite compared to Western varieties that rely on thick, seasoned skin.

Korean fried chicken was originally enjoyed plain or with simple seasoning, but as the dish grew in popularity, entrepreneurs began experimenting with bold, flavorful sauces. From the sweet and spicy Yangnyeom (양념) sauce to the classic soy-garlic glaze, Korean fried chicken fans soon had a variety of unique flavors to choose from.

Korean Fried Chicken Goes Global

By the early 2000s, Korea’s fried chicken obsession began attracting international attention. Restaurants started popping up in cities like New York, Los Angeles, and London, introducing the world to a new kind of fried chicken—one that was crispier, lighter, and infused with bold flavors.

The recipe received another boost in global popularity when South Korea and Japan co-hosted the World Cup in 2002. The excitement of the event drew international attention to Korean culture and its unique culinary traditions, with spectators from around the world joining in on the Korean fried chicken craze. 

Unlike the thick-battered fried chicken styles found in the United States, Korean fried chicken served up savory bites that were crunchy without being greasy. The unique recipe quickly won over fried chicken lovers worldwide, setting the stage for a global culinary takeover.

The Birth of Bonchon: Taking Korean Fried Chicken to the Next Level

Founder Jinduk Seo opened the first Bonchon restaurant in Busan, South Korea in 2002. He named the brand “Bonchon,” meaning “my hometown” in Korean. Driven by a passion for distinct and unforgettable flavor, he spent over a decade perfecting the signature Bonchon sauces that would eventually captivate taste buds worldwide.  

Sauces like Bonchon’s Soy Garlic and Spicy recipes were developed through an intricate process reflecting Korean culinary traditions. Each signature sauce is crafted from a blend of authentic ingredients, including Daeseo-jong garlic sourced from the Upo Wetlands of Changnyeong and Korean Solar Sea Salt (Cheonilyeom) from the Jeolla Province. To complement his sauces, Seo perfected Bonchon’s famous double-frying method to achieve that signature crispy texture. 

Bonchon quickly expanded around the globe thanks to the appeal of its crunchy, hand battered chicken and signature sauces. By 2006, the first overseas location had opened its doors in Fort Lee, New Jersey, and a flagship location in the heart of New York City soon followed. 

The one-of-a-kind chicken was an instant hit. What set Bonchon apart? Every wing, drumstick, and chicken strip was made to order with high-quality ingredients, and diners could taste the difference. Bonchon also created an atmosphere that infused Korean tradition into a variety of dining experiences. From traditional full-service restaurants to food courts, Bonchon has brought its crave-worthy comfort food to more than 455 unique locations worldwide since 2006.

The Future of Korean Fried Chicken

Even as Bonchon stays true to the roots of Korean fried chicken, we continue to push the boundaries of flavor and innovation. We’re always introducing new flavors and innovative recipes to keep our Asian fusion menu exciting for new customers and long-time fans alike. 

Bonchon is also committed to delivering an authentic culinary experience. Whether you’re dining in Seoul, New York, or London, you know you’re experiencing the same gold standard of Korean fried chicken thanks to Bonchon’s commitment to quality and consistency. Our dedication to honoring tradition while embracing modern tastes is what makes Bonchon a leader in the next chapter of Korean fried chicken.

Become Part of the Global Phenomenon

From simple street food to global sensation, Korean fried chicken has come a long way—and Bonchon is leading it into the future.

For food lovers, Bonchon represents the pinnacle of crispy, flavorful Korean fried chicken. For entrepreneurs, it presents an exciting opportunity to be part of a growing phenomenon. Our white glove concierge program and comprehensive training provide the tools you need to jump in on one of the fastest-growing food franchises.

Are you ready to bring Bonchon to your community? Connect with our team to learn more about franchising opportunities and available territories.