By Lee Hyo-sik
Lotteria operates the largest number of franchised stores in Seoul among the home-grown and foreign fast food chains, but the U.S.-based Burger King, which offers pricier selections, has more outlets in affluent southern Seoul districts such as Seocho, Gangnam and Songpa, the Center for Freedom of Information said Wednesday.
The center said there are currently a total of 327 fast food restaurants operating across the nation’s capital, with Lotteria owning the largest number at 130, followed by McDonald’s at 62, Burger King at 60, KFC at 43 and Popeyes at 32.
But in Gangnam, Seocho, and Songpa districts, Burger King has opened 30 stores, compared with Lotteria’s 10. In most districts, including Jung district, Lotteria operates more stores than Burger King and any other fast food franchise.
Burger King’s most popular meal is their “Double Whopper” set, which costs 8,600 won, while Lotteria’s main selection is a “Bulgogi” set priced at 5,100 won.
“The trend indicates that even at fast food restaurants, highly-priced meals are more popular among consumers residing in the affluent three districts, south of the Han River. If we look into coffee franchises and other eateries, the trend will likely be the same,” an official at the center said.