An infographic shows South Korea’s burger market growth, changing consumer prices and major burger chains’ strategies to attract demand. Graphic by Asia Today and translated by UPI
July 8 (Asia Today) -- Burger franchises are emerging as a new growth engine in South Korea's restaurant industry as high inflation and weaker consumer spending slow growth across the broader dining sector.
Analysts say burgers have become a recession-resistant dining option because they are generally less expensive than chicken or pizza, easy to eat alone and well suited to delivery. The growth of one-person households and delivery platforms has further strengthened demand.
According to market researcher Euromonitor, South Korea's burger market grew from about 2.3 trillion won ($1.52 billion) in 2015 to about 5 trillion won ($3.31 billion) in 2025, more than doubling in 10 years.
Industry officials say changing consumption patterns helped drive the expansion. As dining prices have continued to rise, consumers have looked for relatively affordable meals. Burgers also fit the needs of people eating alone more easily than chicken or pizza, which are often shared by groups.
