Guinness Enthusiast Perplexed After Discovering Korean Custom of Serving Beer at KFC

A person who is passionate about Guinness and traveled to South Korea was surprised to discover that the popular Irish stout was available on tap.

After discovering that KFC in Seoul, South Korea served Guinness on tap, Canadian Connor Zapiocki turned to the Guinness Community Facebook page to share his excitement.

Zapiocki explained in his post that he was unimpressed with the drink he received at KFC in Seoul, South Korea, stating “Terrible Guinness but I felt like I had to give it a try.”

It is well known that Guinness can be a challenging drink for bartenders to pour correctly. The proper technique involves pouring a portion of the drink at a 45-degree angle and allowing it to settle before adding the signature creamy foam that Guinness aficionados crave. Unfortunately, the drink Zapiocki received did not meet the standards of a perfect serve.

a terrible Guinness at KFC South Korea — Connor Zapisocki/Facebook

The ‘head’ on a Guinness should sit above the harp logo.

Despite not meeting Zapiocki’s expectations, the availability of an alcoholic beverage left him feeling bewildered. While certain fast food chains, such as Pizza Hut and Chipotle, offer beer with their meals, it is impossible to obtain a Bud Light with a Bargain Bucket in the US.

Despite this, it is not uncommon for alcohol to be served at chains such as McDonald’s outside of the US. In countries like France, Germany, and other parts of Europe, one can easily order a McBeer or McWine.

Why Do They Serve Guinness at Korean KFC?

The menus at KFC locations vary greatly worldwide, with international franchises frequently introducing unique and unusual items. For instance, a subreddit dedicated to South Korean KFC revealed that Guinness was available at their locations for approximately a year, a trend influenced by the local population’s eating preferences.

One individual shared their experience living in South Korea, stating that Koreans have different eating habits and beliefs about digestion compared to Western standards. They noted that due to the richness of chicken, it is customary to pair it with beer. However, the combination of Guinness with KFC is a first and is likely a promotional offer.

Despite its unclear duration, the promo is no longer listed on their website and they now only offer regular soft drinks such as Coke, Sprite, and Fanta.

A different Reddit user shared a photo of a poster hung up at a KFC in South Korea, promoting pre-mixed Jim Beam bourbon drinks:

Jim Beam at KFC in South Korea

Despite the lack of alcoholic beverages listed on their online menu, these posts managed to capture the interest of American beer enthusiasts. One user even remarked, “While Guinness may not be my top pick to accompany fried chicken, it would be fantastic if fast food chains in the US offered beer options.”

Another individual humorously requested, “May I have a bucket of Guinness, please?”

Although it is uncertain if this trend will ever catch on at US fast food establishments, as they tend to cater more towards families and obtaining liquor licenses is more challenging compared to other parts of the world, one should never completely dismiss the possibility.