A very special and crispy celebration is now underway in Bukchon Hanok Village in Seoul. Around the quiet tiled-roof houses, the air is filled with savory aromas and the satisfying sound of crunching bites.
This is the event that had chicken lovers across Korea buzzing even before it opened. From June 4, KFC has been running its brand experience pop-up store, "Colonel Sanders' Crispy Housewarming Party," and we are taking a closer look at it now.
Q1. Why is an American from Kentucky hosting a housewarming party in Bukchon Hanok Village in Korea?
It is because KFC's more than 70-year philosophy of handmade chicken meets Korea's thoughtful housewarming culture. The company chose Bukchon to reinterpret KFC's identity through both sight and taste in a hanok, the most Korean of spaces, and to show customers a hip and crispy twist they will never forget.
Q2. I missed the Naver advance reservation on May 18. Can I still participate if I go now?
Of course you can! Naver advance reservations were offered on a first-come, first-served basis starting May 18, but even if you did not reserve, you can still enter on the day by purchasing a PASS Ticket for 11,000 won at the venue. However, each session is limited to 27 seats, so entry will be allowed in order depending on remaining availability. Don't hesitate and head to Bukchon Hanok Village!
Q3. Can the PASS Ticket really be worth it?
It is more than worth it! Colonel Sanders is bringing generous hospitality to the event. Everyone who enters through on-site purchase will receive unlimited freshly fried KFC chicken, one free drink, and a special tasting item. On top of that, guests can freely enjoy bucket toss, Lucky Straw, the Colonel photo booth, and a DJ program to keep the energy high. Event rewards and limited-edition gifts are included as a bonus.
Q4. I heard the atmosphere is completely different between day and night. Which session should I choose?
The event runs in four sessions a day, each lasting 110 minutes, so visitors can enjoy a different charm whether they come during the day or at night.
Day sessions (Session 1 at 11:00 a.m. / Session 2 at 1:00 p.m.): Guests can enjoy a cozy gourmet pairing, combining KFC chicken with a variety of sauces amid the calm atmosphere of a hanok.
Night sessions (Session 3 at 6:00 p.m. / Session 4 at 8:00 p.m.): Soft hanok night views are joined by dazzling lights and an upbeat DJ program, transforming the venue into a hip Chimaek party.
Q5. Can I have Chimaek or even chimaek with wine as housewarming food?
Absolutely! Alcoholic drinks are available to go with the unlimited chicken. However, alcohol can only be purchased and used by guests who complete age verification on site, so adults who want to enjoy themselves should bring an ID card.
Q6. I heard there are only 27 seats per session. Any tips for getting in on site?
Entry begins right on time, and waiting may occur depending on the situation at the venue. Also, Colonel Sanders' housewarming clock runs on schedule, so even if you arrive late, each session still ends at the same time. To cut down on waiting and enjoy unlimited chicken for even one minute longer, we strongly recommend an early arrival before each session starts at 11:00 a.m., 1:00 p.m., 6:00 p.m., and 8:00 p.m.
Q7. What should I check one last time before visiting this pop-up store?
This event may end early without prior notice depending on company circumstances, and the latest updates on on-site operations and stock will be shared through the KFC Official Instagram (@kfc_korea). Please check Instagram before you leave, and you can also find more detailed usage notes on the Naver reservation page. The doors to on-site participation are wide open, so feel free to visit anytime!
In one line: "Crispy Housewarming Party" in Bukchon Hanok Village is more than a simple product tasting event. It is a carefully prepared festival where customers can experience the KFC brand with all five senses and enjoy it to the fullest in a cultural setting.