Korean Fried Chicken Brands Compared | Kyochon, bhc, BBQ Best Menus & Ordering Tips

If there's one absolute must-try culinary experience in Korea, it's definitely Korean fried chicken. Whether watching a baseball game, hanging out with friends, or satisfying a late-night craving, ordering chicken is second nature for locals. With chicken joints on almost every corner, it's a true staple of everyday life in Korea.

However, trying to place an order can feel overwhelming at first. With so many major brands—like Kyochon, bhc, BBQ, and Goobne—and unfamiliar menu titles, it's hard to know where to start. Even standard options like "Yangnyeom" (sweet and spicy seasoned chicken) taste surprisingly different from one chain to another.

This guide covers everything you need to know, from basic styles and top brand recommendations to popular menu items and handy ordering tips.

1. Korean Fried Chicken: The Basics

Korean fried chicken is famous for its thin, ultra-crispy crust. Double-fried to lock in moisture, it stays light on the outside while remaining juicy on the inside. Korea has also perfected the art of tossing freshly fried chicken in a variety of delicious sauces. Here are a few essential menu terms to help you order like a pro.

• Fried (Huraideu): Classic crispy fried chicken without sauce. A foolproof choice for first-timers.
• Yangnyeom Chicken: Freshly fried chicken coated in an iconic sweet, tangy, and mildly spicy red sauce.
• Ganjang Chicken: Savory-sweet chicken glazed with a rich soy sauce and garlic mix.
• Ban-ban (Half & Half): A split order letting you combine two flavors—usually classic Fried and Yangnyeom—in a single box.
• Boneless (Sunsal): Bite-sized boneless chicken pieces. It is hassle-free to eat and ideal if you are dining with kids.

Pro Tip: Every order comes with pickled white radish cubes called "chicken mu." Their sweet, tangy crunch cuts through the richness and cleanses your palate, so don't hesitate to give them a try!

2. The Big Three Korean Chicken Chains

The Korean fried chicken landscape is led by three major giants: Kyochon Chicken, bhc, and BBQ. Competition among them is fierce—as of 2025, bhc leads in total corporate revenue, BBQ boasts the highest number of store locations nationwide, and Kyochon claims the highest average sales per store.

① Kyochon Chicken – The Pioneers of Soy Garlic & Honey Glaze

Kyochon is famous for hand-brushing sauce onto every single piece of chicken. Thanks to its thin, extra-crispy batter, it stays crunchy much longer than usual. Their signature menu features "Kyochon Original" (savory soy garlic), "Honey" (sweet honey glaze), and "Red" (spicy).

What to order: The "Honey Combo," packed with only wings and drumsticks, is a massive favorite among international travelers. If you enjoy a spicy kick, definitely give the "Red Combo" a try.

② bhc – The Home of the Iconic Cheese-Seasoned "Bburinkle"

bhc is hugely popular with the younger crowd for its unique seasoning flavors. Its legendary star menu, "Bburinkle," comes generously dusted with a sweet and savory cheese powder that is irresistibly addictive. Pro tip: make sure to dip each piece into the tangy "Bburinkle Sauce" served alongside.

What to order: Aside from Bburinkle, "Macho King"—coated in a sweet and salty soy sauce glaze—is another huge hit. Locals almost always add a side of cheese balls to complete the order.

③ BBQ – The Undisputed King of Golden, Extra-Crispy Fried Chicken

BBQ is famous for its signature "Golden Olive Chicken," fried in olive oil blending to achieve a vibrant golden crispiness. It delivers the ultimate classic fried chicken flavor. With locations across the country, it's super convenient to order wherever you are in Korea.

What to order: Start with the classic "Golden Olive Chicken." If you want the best of both worlds, order a "Half & Half" combination (half original fried, half sweet-and-spicy seasoned).

3. Don't Miss Out on These Unique Crowd Favorites

④ Goobne Chicken – Oven-Roasted, Never Fried

Unlike traditional fried chicken, Goobne roasts its chicken in the oven for a lighter, cleaner taste. It is a great option if you want something less greasy. Their top menu items are the crispy and spicy "Gochu Basasak" and the sweet-and-spicy "Volcano."

⑤ Puradak – Gourmet Chicken with Signature Sauces

Famous for its sleek, luxury-style packaging, Puradak shines with its creative sauce flavor combinations. Their flagship dish is "Black Alio," which pairs a garlic-soy glaze with creamy mayonnaise, while "Gochu Mayo" (spicy chili mayo) is another fan favorite. They offer plenty of boneless options, making it super convenient to eat right in your hotel room.

Pro Tip: Can't decide between the two? Order the half-and-half "Black Mayo" to get a taste of both Black Alio and Gochu Mayo in one box!

⑥ 60-gye Chicken – Fresh Oil for Maximum Crunch

60-gye Chicken built its reputation on a strict rule: frying no more than 60 chickens per batch of oil. This guarantees a clean, extra-crispy crunch every single time. They feature a diverse menu, including the savory-sweet soy "Ganjhi Chicken," the crisp and spicy "KKK Chicken," and spice-rubbed "Cumin Wings & Drumsticks."

Pro Tip: Most menu items can be ordered boneless, which makes it a hassle-free option for first-timers and families traveling with kids.

4. Quick Picks Based on Your Taste

• First time trying Korean chicken? Go with BBQ Golden Olive Chicken or a classic Half & Half (Original Fried & Spicy-Sweet Yangnyeom).
• If you love sweet flavors: Kyochon Honey Combo or bhc Bburinkle.
• Up for a spicy challenge? Try Kyochon Red Combo, Goobne Gochubasasak, or Puradak Gochumayo.
• Prefer something lighter and non-fried? Go with Goobne Oven-Roasted Chicken.
• Want crispy boneless bites? Try any boneless menu item from 60 Kye Chicken.

5. Pro Tips for Ordering Korean Chicken

• Prices vary by brand and item, but a whole chicken typically costs around 20,000 KRW. Delivery fees are separate, and delivery app prices can sometimes be slightly higher than in-store prices.
• One whole chicken is usually perfect for two adults. If you have a larger group, try ordering two different flavors to share!
• Delivery times can take longer during peak hours (7:00 PM to 9:00 PM), especially on Friday nights or during major sports games.
• Pairing fried chicken with beer—famously known as "chimaek"—is an iconic Korean experience. If the weather is nice, enjoy chimaek outdoors at Hangang Park!
• Make your feast even better by adding delicious side items like dipping sauces, cheese balls, or French fries.

Order Chicken Easily to Your Hotel with WOWKOREA SERVICE

If signing up for Korean delivery apps or typing Korean addresses feels complicated, WOWKOREA SERVICE Food Delivery makes it effortless. International travelers can easily choose top-rated chicken menus and have them delivered directly to their hotel. After a long day of sightseeing, kicking back in your room with hot, fresh chicken is a delicious travel memory you won't forget.

So, which chicken flavor are you trying tonight? You simply can't leave Korea without treating yourself to a fresh chicken feast!