The Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (MAFRA) has announced the launch of the K-Chicken Belt, a nationwide initiative to position Korea as a global culinary destination. The project aims to leverage the popularity of Korean chicken dishes, such as fried chicken, samgyetang, and dakgangjeong, as a gateway to broader K-food culture. Under the slogan ‘Connecting the World Beyond Chicken,’ the policy seeks to expand Korea’s food tourism appeal by integrating local cuisine with regional tourism assets. This initiative builds on the ongoing K-Gastronomy Belt program, which since 2024 has promoted Korean staples like sauces, kimchi, ginseng, and traditional liquor.
The K-Chicken Belt impacts both domestic and international tourists, local farmers, and the food service industry. By linking signature chicken dishes from regions such as Chuncheon (dakgalbi), Andong (jjimdak), and Mokpo with local attractions and hidden culinary spots, the program creates new tourism hotspots. The Korea Tourism Organization’s ‘K-Local Gastronomy Travel 33’ selections are also incorporated to guide visitors. Local agricultural products like Uiseong garlic and Changnyeong onions will be featured in signature menus, and existing chicken industry infrastructure will be used for experiential tourism programs. These efforts are designed to stimulate regional economies and foster collaboration between farmers and the food industry.
Implementation began with the official announcement on June 19, 2024, and includes a public participation event to crowdsource recommendations for notable chicken eateries and culinary districts. The K-Chicken Belt map will be released in the first half of the year, and travel content creators will produce videos highlighting regional chicken cuisine destinations. The initiative also includes hands-on programs such as factory tours and culinary experiences, transforming the chicken industry’s infrastructure into tourist attractions. The Ministry plans to continue expanding the K-Gastronomy Belt by integrating more local specialties and tourism resources.
Frequently asked questions include: What is the K-Chicken Belt? It is a policy initiative connecting regional chicken dishes and tourism to boost Korea’s status as a global food destination. Who benefits from the program? Local farmers, the chicken industry, tourists, and regional economies all stand to gain. How can the public participate? Citizens can recommend hidden chicken restaurants and culinary sites, with selected entries contributing to the official K-Chicken Belt map and eligible for prizes.
Metaqsol opinion: The K-Chicken Belt is a forward-thinking policy that capitalizes on the international popularity of Korean chicken dishes to drive tourism and regional economic growth. By connecting local food culture with tourism infrastructure and encouraging public participation, the initiative fosters sustainable development and cross-industry collaboration. The program’s integration with the broader K-Gastronomy Belt ensures a comprehensive approach to promoting Korean food culture globally. This initiative is likely to strengthen Korea’s position as a top culinary destination.