Korean Fried Chicken has a relatively recent history compared to other Korean dishes, emerging in the 20th century. While deep-fried chicken has been present in Korea since the 1940s, the modern style of crispy, double-fried chicken with a variety of glazes gained popularity in the 1970s. The boom of fried chicken franchises like BB.Q Chicken, Kyochon, and Bonchon in the late 20th century cemented its place as a beloved comfort food.
In recent years, Korean Fried Chicken (often fondly called “the other KFC”) has taken the world by storm. From New York to Sydney, Korean Fried Chicken restaurants have popped up, drawing in food lovers with its ultra-crispy texture and bold flavours. The global popularity of K-dramas and K-pop has further fueled its recognition, with fans eager to try the dishes featured in their favourite shows.
Signature Cooking Style & Sauces
What makes Korean Fried Chicken stand out?
Double Frying: Unlike American fried chicken, Korean Fried Chicken is fried twice, which results in an extra crispy crust while keeping the inside juicy and tender.
Lighter Batter: Instead of a thick flour-based coating, it often uses a thinner, crispier batter with ingredients like cornstarch and rice flour.
Variety of Sauces: While classic soy-garlic and spicy gochujang-based sauces are the most famous, there are endless variations, from honey butter to cheese powder coatings.
Best Pairings for Korean Fried Chicken
Korean Fried Chicken is commonly enjoyed with:
Pickled Radish (Chikin-Mu): The acidity helps balance the rich, fried flavours.
Beer (Chimaek): The famous combo of chicken (“chi”) and beer (“maekju”) is a must-try.
Rice or Fries: While not traditional, many restaurants now serve fried chicken with rice or loaded fries for a more filling meal.
Regional & Fusion Variations
Different regions and chefs have put their spin on Korean Fried Chicken:
Dakgangjeong (Sweet Crispy Chicken): A bite-sized, sticky, and crunchy version often found in Korean markets.
Snow Cheese Chicken: Popular in South Korea, this version is coated in a cheesy powder.
Fusion Styles: Some places experiment with unique sauces like truffle soy, honey sriracha, or even matcha dusting.
Final Thoughts
Korean Fried Chicken is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. Whether you love spicy, sweet, or savoury flavours, there’s a version for everyone. With its growing global presence, it’s clear that KFC is here to stay! To get a taste of Korean Fried Chicken at home is pretty easy too, check out our quick and tasty recipe here.
