5 Korean-Inspired Businesses You Can Franchise

The Korean Wave or “Hallyu” gained traction in the Philippines in the early 2000s with the release of so-called “Koreanovelas” that have gained popularity with local television audiences. Since then, many Filipinos all over the country have become avid fans of K-drama, K-pop, Korean celebrities, and Korean food. 

Over two decades later, so-called Hallyu is showing no signs of slowing down and looks as though it’s here to stay. The business sector, particularly the franchising industry, has clearly taken advantage of this X factor, evident in the growing number of Korean-inspired businesses and franchise concepts today. 

Here are five fast-growing Korean-inspired franchises with strong market and high-income potential: 

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1| FunHan Mart

Franchise fee: P400,000 to P600,000

Investment: P4 million to P7 million 

Launching its first store on May 30, 2021, FunHan Mart is the first K-convenience store franchise in the Philippines. Just a year later, the company impressively opened eight more branches in Metro Manila, bolstering their plans for further expansion throughout the country. FunHan Mart provides a broad range of affordable Korean products, such as ramen noodles, snacks, chips, kimchi, and other Korean comfort foods. 

The store offers a new level of convenience store experience by introducing South Korean culture to Filipinos, through their unique operations and superb customer service, making FunHan Mart a successful and resilient franchise brand.

2| BonChon

Franchise fee: P1.5 million

Investment: P11 million to P13 million 

One of the brands inducted into Francorp’s 100 Club during the franchise leader’s 25th anniversary celebration in June last year, BonChon now has over 140 branches here in the Philippines, and many more in the U.S. and Southeast Asia. 

BonChon is the world-famous OG Korean fried chicken chain loved by many Filipinos ever since it first opened in the country in 2010. The brand is known for its delectable, crispy, and juicy Korean fried chicken, which has easily become a Filipino favorite.

A well-established franchise business with a loyal customer base and high-profit potential, BonChon provides its franchisees with comprehensive support on marketing, supply chain, product development, and innovation.

3| Ssamthing Korean

Franchise fee: P1 million

Investment: P8 million 

Known for authentic Korean barbecue, Ssamthing Korean is a distinguished culinary destination that brings the rich and diverse flavors of Korean cuisine to the forefront.

Unafraid of utilizing modern twists to their dishes, Ssamthing Korean allows its patrons to come together to relish the true flavors of Korean cuisine. The restaurant brand is a celebration of tradition, taste, and togetherness, where customers can discover joy in the limitless servings of authentic Korean flavors, accompanied by chicken, beer and more. 

With a proven business model, strong brand recognition, and unwavering support, the Ssamthing Korean franchise offers a rewarding and profitable venture for those passionate about food and culture. 

4| Kim’s Ramyun

Franchise fee: P250,000 to P500,000

Investment: P750,000 to P3.2 million 

Kim's Ramyun is a proud creation of Kmall Philippines, a powerhouse in supplying topnotch Korean products across the country. Since its inception in 2017, Kmall has been delivering a diverse range of products, from cosmetics to delectable K-food items, bringing the best of Korea to our shores. 

Kim's Ramyun is a 24-hour Korean convenience store that elevates the mukbang experience. The brand offers over 100 varieties of Korean Ramyun sure to tantalize taste buds. Patrons can customize their Ramyun experience by selecting from more than 20 toppings or go all out and craft their own unique Ramyun masterpiece.

The franchise of Kim's Ramyun offers more than just superb Korean meals and products; it also provides a huge space where Filipinos can immerse in various aspects of Korean food and culture.

5| Samgyeopsal House

Franchise fee: P500,000

Investment: P6.5 million to P7.5 million 

Samgyeopsal House is the home of the best all-you-can-eat Korean barbecue. It’s a place where friends and families can do everything together: grilling, wrapping, dipping, eating and drinking.

Nothing beats having a great time with the best food and people. At Samgyeopsal House, customers can enjoy delicious and unlimited Korean food at everyday prices. Whether it’s a birthday celebration or small toasts to success, Samgyeopsal House is a place where memories are created and cherished. 

The Samgyeopsal House restaurant franchise is a great investment that offers quality meat and a fun dining experience to the masses at a great price.

Are you interested in becoming a franchisee of these Korean-inspired franchise concepts? For inquiries, you may call/text  (+632) 8634.05.86, (+632) 8634.37.17, (+63920) 983.02.47, or (+63917) 881.69.99 or email [email protected] or visit https://www.ufranchiseasia.com/.

Velle Cacha-Manuel is a Certified Franchise Executive and the AVP for Marketing of the IFCP Group of Companies – U-Franchise Sales & Management, Francorp Philippines, and ActionCOACH Philippines.