Monday, May 18, 2026

Burgers Become a ‘Value-for-Money Meal’ Amid High Prices... Chicken Industry Joins the Battle

Input
2026-05-17 18:44:15
Updated
2026-05-17 18:44:15
Citizens are dining at a McDonald's in downtown Seoul.
News1 Due to the impact of high inflation, consumer spending sentiment is shifting toward the relatively cheaper hamburger market. In particular, major chicken companies, whose growth has stagnated due to the burden of delivery fees and dual pricing systems, are scrambling to expand their burger businesses in an attempt to find a breakthrough. 2991 trillion won last year.
4%) over two years. This boom in the hamburger market was primarily driven by the "lunchflation" (lunch + inflation) phenomenon caused by high prices. With prices for major dining-out menus exceeding 10,000 won, burgers have emerged as a reasonable alternative, offering a meal in the 7,000 to 8,000 won range.
The rise in single-person households and a shift in consumption patterns toward convenient dining options have also driven increased demand. On the other hand, the growth of the chicken industry, a major dining-out market, has slowed compared to the burger market. 0599 trillion won last year.
9%). Analysts attribute this to the introduction of dual pricing systems by delivery apps and high delivery fees, which have increased the burden on consumers and hampered growth. Consequently, chicken companies are entering the burger market.
5 trillion won last year, is expected to see stagnant growth by 2030. During the same period, the burger market is predicted to expand from 5 trillion won to 8 trillion won. In fact, bhc is selling chicken burgers during lunchtime, primarily in select commercial areas such as Gaeppo and Gyodae in Seoul.
It was found that burgers account for approximately 24% of total sales at stores selling chicken burgers. Genesis BBQ is also attempting to expand its hamburger menu, previously sold only at select locations, to all franchise stores. An industry insider stated, "The market is growing as the average purchase price for hamburgers is low and the culture of solo dining is spreading," adding, "Since hamburgers are mainly sold during lunchtime, desserts in the afternoon, and chicken in the evening, this is a strategy to target diverse consumers based on the time of day.
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security@fnnews.com Park Kyung-ho Reporter