Get Ready for the Crunch: Korea’s Genesis BBQ Lands in South Africa
South Africans’ love affair with fried chicken is about to hit a bold new high note. Genesis BBQ, one of South Korea’s most famous fast-food chicken chains, is making its debut in South Africa, bringing its signature ultra-crisp coatings and inventive Korean flavours to the local market.
With openings planned in Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Bloemfontein, and more cities to follow, the arrival of Genesis BBQ marks the first time the brand has landed on the African continent.
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A Strategic African Launch
The move comes after Genesis BBQ signed a major franchise agreement with local partner Good Tree South Africa, a distributor of Korean food products. The deal was formalised on November 5 at Genesis BBQ’s Seoul headquarters, with Chairman Yoon Hong-geun and Good Tree CEO Lee Dong-il in attendance.
“South Africa is our strategic cornerstone for expanding into the African market and promoting K-food globally,” Yoon said. “We’ll introduce localized menu items and share Korean food culture centred on K-chicken.”
Founded in 1995, Genesis BBQ has grown into one of Korea’s largest fast-food brands, with 2,400 outlets in Korea and 700 overseas in 57 countries. The chain is famed for its bold sauces, including soy-garlic, honey-glaze, fiery spice blends, and the popular half-and-half combo, which lets diners try two different coatings in one serving.
Why South Africa?
The country’s appetite for chicken makes it a natural landing spot. South Africans consume an average of 36kg of chicken per person annually, more than double the global average.
The announcement has already sparked excitement online. Fans are speculating about menu adaptations: Will the glazes be spicier? Could there be a local twist like pap on the side? On X, one comment capturing the mood read: “K-chicken and pap is going to be a game changer.”
A Taste of K-Culture
Genesis BBQ promises a fast-casual experience combining speedy service with Korean-style presentation. While sticking to its tried-and-tested recipes, the brand has confirmed plans to localise the menu for South African tastes, hinting at exclusive offerings that may blend K-chicken with homegrown favourites.
The arrival of Genesis BBQ taps into the broader global fascination with Korean food, often called the “K-food wave”, which has already brought K-pop, K-dramas, and kimchi to global attention. South Africa now joins that trend, ready to embrace crispy, Instagram-worthy chicken with a uniquely Korean twist.
What’s Next
As the franchise prepares to open its first doors, foodies can expect a social-media-ready culinary experience: crispy chicken, inventive sauces, and the chance to explore Korean cuisine without leaving home.
If the online chatter is anything to go by, Genesis BBQ could redefine fried chicken culture in South Africa, combining local appetite with international flair—and a crunch that fans won’t soon forget.
Source: IOL
Featured Image: Chosunbiz
