“Why Koreans Fell in Love with Chicken”
Introduction
Fried chicken isn’t just food for Koreans; it’s a cultural phenomenon. From celebrations to comforting moments, chicken is often present in daily Korean life. But how did this love affair begin, and why is chicken so ingrained in Korean culture today? Let’s dive into this fascinating history.
🐔 The Origin of Fried Chicken
- American Beginnings: The concept of fried chicken originated in the southern United States. It was first developed by African American slaves on cotton plantations who were provided with leftover chicken parts that were less desirable, such as wings and drumsticks. They perfected the art of frying these parts, leading to what we now recognize as the beloved fried chicken. This method was energy-rich and practical for their labor-intensive lives, making it a hearty and sustainable meal.
- Colonel Sanders and KFC: Fried chicken gained worldwide recognition thanks to Colonel Sanders and his famous Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC). Starting in a small town called Corbin in Kentucky, Sanders began selling his southern-style fried chicken, eventually developing his secret recipe and pressure-frying technique. This innovative cooking method allowed KFC to become a global franchise sensation, bringing fried chicken to countries worldwide, including South Korea.
🥢 The Introduction of Chicken in Korea
- 1970s – The Era of ‘Tongdak’: The story of chicken in Korea began in the 1970s with the rise of “Tongdak,” a whole chicken fried to a golden crisp. As chicken farms became more widespread and oil production increased, chicken became more accessible, marking the start of Korea’s chicken journey.
- First Chicken Franchise – Lim’s Chicken: The first official chicken franchise in Korea was “Lim’s Chicken,” established in 1977 in the basement of the Shinsegae Department Store in Myeong-dong. It set the stage for many future chicken brands that would become household names.
🍗 The Evolution and Rise of Korean Chicken Culture
- The Birth of Yangnyeom Chicken: Koreans are known for their love of flavor, and it wasn’t long before they transformed fried chicken into something unique. In the late 1980s, the introduction of “Yangnyeom Chicken” (seasoned chicken) revolutionized the chicken market. Coated in a sweet and spicy sauce, this version of fried chicken became an instant hit, elevating chicken into a must-have food for every occasion.
- 1990s and the Kyochon Revolution: During the 1990s, Kyochon Chicken emerged as a dominant player, breaking the norm by serving only the chicken wings. This innovative approach, combined with their signature soy-garlic sauce, made them incredibly popular. Their strategy of giving out small chicken pieces to students after school was a marketing masterstroke, allowing them to solidify their position as one of the top chicken brands in Korea.
📈 Chicken’s Popularity Boosts
- 1997 Asian Financial Crisis Impact: Despite being a challenging time, the 1997 financial crisis saw a surge in chicken restaurants across Korea. As many workers lost their jobs, opening a chicken shop became an affordable and straightforward business option. This resulted in a boom in the number of chicken franchises, making it a staple of Korean nightlife and dining culture.
- 2002 World Cup Craze: Another critical moment in Korean chicken history was the 2002 World Cup. The tournament witnessed Korea’s national team making history, and fans celebrated with chicken and beer, creating the iconic “Chimaek” (Chicken + Beer) culture. From that point, the combination of chicken and beer became inseparable from Korean celebrations.
🥒 The Essential Sidekick – Chicken Mu (Pickled Radish)
Chicken in Korea is rarely eaten alone. A must-have companion is “Chicken Mu,” the pickled radish that perfectly complements the rich flavor of fried chicken. The practice began with Mexicana, a chicken brand, and the popularity of Chicken Mu has persisted ever since. Its vinegar-infused taste helps balance the heaviness of fried chicken, making it a perfect match.
💡 The Science Behind the Perfect Chicken Mu
Ever wonder why chicken mu is always packed in a container filled to the brim with vinegar? This method ensures that the pickled radish remains fresh and maintains its flavor throughout its shelf life. The abundant vinegar helps to preserve the radish for up to a month, keeping it crunchy and delicious.
🎉 Why Is Chicken So Popular in Korea?
- Affordability: Chicken offers a relatively inexpensive way to enjoy a flavorful and satisfying meal compared to other meat options.
- Variety: From crispy fried chicken to saucy yangnyeom, the endless variety of flavors caters to different tastes.
- Convenience: With a vast number of delivery options, chicken can be enjoyed anytime and anywhere, making it a go-to choice for gatherings, parties, or even a quiet night in.
Conclusion
Korea’s journey with chicken has been one of evolution, adaptation, and innovation. From the influence of American fried chicken to the birth of unique Korean flavors, chicken has become more than just food – it’s a cultural icon. Today, it stands as the ultimate comfort food that unites people, no matter the occasion.
