Data released by the South Korean government on Friday revealed that, by the end of last year, South Korean food and beverage enterprises were operating more than 4,600 stores in overseas markets.

According to a joint survey by South Korea's Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs and the Korea Agro-Fisheries & Food Trade Corp., a total of 139 restaurant brands had established 4,644 outlets across 56 countries and regions as of the end of December.

In 2023, 144 restaurant brands were operating 4,382 stores in the same number of countries and regions.

By country, 56 South Korean food brands had a presence in the United States, while 43 brands operated in Vietnam. There were 35 brands in mainland China, 33 in Japan, and 31 in the Philippines.

In terms of store count, the United States accounted for nearly 24% of all overseas locations, with 1,104 stores. Well-known fried chicken brands such as BBQ Chicken and Bonchon Chicken, along with bakery chains like Paris Baguette and Tous les Jours, held a significant share of the market.

By the end of last year, South Korean food brands were operating 830 stores in China, reflecting a 15% increase from 2024 but a 40% decline compared to 2020.

South Korean brands operated 634 stores in Vietnam, 294 in the Philippines, 231 in Thailand, 166 in Canada, and 143 in Japan.