Gyochon Chicken Shakes wiht Successive Bad News Amidst Franchisee Conflict
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Seoul, South Korea – September 14, 2025 - Popular Korean fried chicken chain Gyochon F&B is navigating a growing controversy stemming from allegations of reduced product weight and internal operational adjustments, igniting discontent among its franchisees. The issues, initially surfacing in late August, center on claims that the company quietly altered chicken portion sizes and meat preparation methods without transparent communication.
The unfolding situation represents a meaningful challenge for Gyochon, a brand known for its distinctive marinated fried chicken. The weight controversy, coupled with reported franchisee dissatisfaction regarding operational efficiency and recipe changes, threatens to damage the company’s reputation and potentially impact sales. The company’s response, characterizing some changes as a “high school measure” for profitability, has further fueled the debate and raised questions about clarity.
Weight Reduction Controversy and Franchisee Concerns
Gyochon Chicken addressed the weight reduction claims, stating they were implemented as a temporary measure during the launch of new products to improve franchisee profitability. Specifically, the company explained that the change involved unifying specifications for its existing honey short flesh chicken (originally 500g). However, the company acknowledged that this renewal was not publicly announced.
Beyond weight, Gyochon also addressed concerns about changes in meat usage. Previously, only the chicken breast was used, but store owners reported excessive crumbs during cooking, reducing operational efficiency. To address this, the company unified the meat cut to include relief, a change that was not initially communicated externally.
Did You Know? … Gyochon Chicken was founded in 1991 and has grown to become one of South Korea’s most recognizable fried chicken brands.
Operational Adjustments and Supply Chain Challenges
Further complicating matters, some franchisees expressed dissatisfaction with the difficulty of applying sauce to salmal chicken (whole chicken) compared to bone chicken. Gyochon stated it was adjusting the recipe to improve this aspect of preparation. the company also acknowledged the impact of avian influenza (AI) outbreaks at the end of 2024 and the beginning of 2025 on chicken supply and demand, stating It is true that there was a problem with the supply and demand of chicken due to avian influenza (AI) at the end of the year and the beginning of the year.
![Chicken is displayed in a traditional market in downtown Seoul on the 10th of last month. [사진 = 뉴스1]](https://pimg.mk.co.kr/news/cms/202509/14/rcv.NEWS1.NEWS1.20250810.2025-08-10T133731_1007437188_INDUSTRY_I_P1.jpg)
Key Developments: Gyochon Chicken Controversy
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| Late August 2025 | Allegations of weight reduction surface. |
| September 14, 2025 | Gyochon F&B issues clarification. |
| End of 2024/Early 2025 | Avian Influenza impacts chicken supply. |
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The situation raises questions about the balance between corporate profitability and maintaining franchisee trust. The lack of proactive communication regarding these changes has exacerbated the issue, leading to increased scrutiny from both franchisees and consumers.
What impact will these changes have on Gyochon Chicken’s long-term brand image? How will the company address the concerns of its franchisees moving forward?
The Korean fried chicken market is highly competitive,with numerous brands vying for market share. Gyochon chicken has historically differentiated itself through its unique marinade and focus on quality. However, recent challenges highlight the importance of transparent communication and strong franchisee relationships in maintaining a successful brand. Avian influenza outbreaks have become increasingly common, posing a recurring threat to poultry supply chains globally.
Frequently Asked Questions about Gyochon Chicken
- What is the weight controversy surrounding Gyochon chicken? The controversy centers on allegations that Gyochon Chicken reduced the weight of its chicken portions without informing franchisees or customers.
- What changes did Gyochon make to its meat preparation? Gyochon shifted from using only chicken breast to including relief to improve operational efficiency and reduce crumbs during cooking.
- Did avian influenza impact Gyochon Chicken? Yes, the company acknowledged that avian influenza outbreaks at the end of 2024 and beginning of 2025 caused supply and demand issues.
- What is Gyochon Chicken doing to address franchisee concerns? The company is adjusting its recipe to improve sauce application on whole chicken and claims to be addressing profitability concerns.
- How is Gyochon Chicken responding to the criticism? Gyochon characterized some changes as a temporary measure for profitability and stated it was unifying specifications for existing products.
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