Global investment firm Carlyle announced that an affiliated entity of Carlyle Asia Partners has reached a definitive agreement to acquire all shares of KFC Korea. The financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.
KFC Korea, which operates under a master franchise agreement with Yum! Brands, manages more than 200 KFC outlets across South Korea. The brand has been present in the country since opening its first location in Seoul in 1984.
Carlyle intends to use its experience in the food and beverage and quick-service restaurant sectors in Asia to work with KFC Korea’s management team. The goal is to support new store openings, improve marketing efforts, and drive menu innovation tailored to Korean consumer preferences. This acquisition also builds on Carlyle’s ownership of KFC Japan and aims to strengthen its relationship with Yum! Brands.
John Kim, Partner and Head of Carlyle Korea, stated: “We are excited to further partner with Yum! Brands and work with the management team at KFC Korea to grow this iconic brand in South Korea. With its strong heritage and position in the market, we see significant opportunities for KFC Korea to expand its presence and capitalize on the growing demand for quick-service dining with Korean consumers.”
Tony Shin, CEO of KFC Korea, commented: “This partnership with Carlyle marks an exciting milestone for KFC Korea. Carlyle has extensive experience in the quick-service restaurant and F&B sectors, and we look forward to working with the team to drive continued growth and innovation. Together, we aim to further elevate the exceptional KFC experience that Korean customers have come to know and love.”
Carlyle has previously invested in several companies within the restaurant sector both regionally and globally. Its current portfolio includes A Twosome Place—a dessert café chain operating over 1,700 stores in South Korea—and KFC Japan. Past investments have included McDonald’s China and Japanese restaurant chain operator Chimney.
Carlyle is a global investment firm managing $474 billion in assets as of September 30, 2025. It employs more than 2,400 people across 27 offices worldwide.
