Whatever Kim Jong-Un may think, capitalism thrives just across his border. In South Korea, that emblem of Western business McDonald’s is celebrating its 30th anniversary in Korea. McDonald’s was established there in 1988, the year of the Seoul Summer Olympics, introducing South Korea’s first drive-thru in 1992. It is estimated that over the past ten years, 1.9 billion people have visited an outlet in the country.
Melanie Joo-yeon Joh, managing director of McDonald’s Korea, said “The biggest reason why McDonald’s has been a beloved franchise in Korea for the past 30 years is great love and cheer from our customers. McDonald’s will seek sustainable development as the leading company in Korea’s food services industry and provide the best food and service suiting the various lifestyles and needs of our customers.”