---
title: "Bonchon Earns Industry Recognition, Approaches 500 Locations Globally"
url: https://burnaze.com/article/4aacd736-ef5f-4018-b53d-4af693466311
source: "Franchising.com"
original_url: https://www.franchising.com/news/20260618_bonchon_earns_industry_recognition_approaches_500_locations_globally.html
category: "Fast casual"
industry: "Restaurants"
segment: "Fast casual"
published: 2026-06-18T12:00:00.000Z
modified: 2026-10-31T14:43:30.890Z
image: https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1504674900247-0877df9cc836?w=1600&q=80&auto=format&fit=crop
---

# Bonchon Earns Industry Recognition, Approaches 500 Locations Globally

**TL;DR:** Bonchon, a Korean fried chicken chain, is approaching 500 locations globally and expanding into new areas, including Malaysia and two U.S. airports. The brand has received industry recognition, including being named a top position on Fast Casual's Movers and Shakers list and its CEO, Suzie Tsai, being recognized as a top executive.

*originally published in Franchising.com on 2026-06-18. [Read the original](https://www.franchising.com/news/20260618_bonchon_earns_industry_recognition_approaches_500_locations_globally.html).*

## Story

“These wins reflect the strength of our menu and brand, the dedication of our franchise partners and the growing appetite for Korean cuisine,” says Suzie Tsai, CEO of Bonchon. “Malaysia is an exciting next step for us as we continue bringing Bonchon to new communities while supporting our partners’ long-term success.”

As Korean culture grows in popularity, the brand is introducing its crazy crispy, double-fried Korean fried chicken to new areas around the world. With the addition of Malaysia, Bonchon will now operate in nine countries and continues to grow through a mix of traditional restaurants, counter-service formats, and non-traditional locations. Bonchon will enter two U.S. airports in 2026, increasing brand awareness to new guests. Beyond continental U.S. growth, the brand will open its first location in Puerto Rico by early 2027.

Bonchon reports ongoing product development and technology enhancements aimed at improving the guest experience and supporting operations. In 2026, the brand reported momentum in digital sales and reached a top position on Fast Casual's Movers and Shakers list. Tsai was recognized as a top executive by Fast Casual in 2024, 2025, and 2026.

“We feel confident there is tremendous white space and demand for our unique flavors and crunch,” says Blas Escarcega, chief development officer of Bonchon. “We’re actively seeking experienced franchise partners who want to grow with a globally recognized brand backed by proven systems, strong training, and operational support.”

With more than 20 years in the category, Bonchon has built a following around its hand-battered, double-fried chicken and consistent guest experience. The brand offers a menu featuring authentic Korean flavors and continues to introduce new offerings. For more information about franchising, visit franchising.bonchon.com.

## Entities

- Franchising.com (publication)
- QSR (sector)
- franchise growth (topic)
- global expansion (topic)
- industry recognition (topic)
- Blas Escarcega (person)
- menu development (topic)
- Bonchon (company)
- Puerto Rico (location)
- Malaysia (location)
- Suzie Tsai (person)
- korean cuisine (topic)

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Originally reported by Franchising.com (https://www.franchising.com/news/20260618_bonchon_earns_industry_recognition_approaches_500_locations_globally.html). Summarized by Burnaze (https://burnaze.com/article/4aacd736-ef5f-4018-b53d-4af693466311).