Lotteria

Lotteria (롯데리아) is Korea's original fast food chain, founded September 1979 by Lotte Group — predating McDonald's Korea by nearly a decade. With 1,200-1,300 locations, it holds the distinction of introducing fast food culture to Korea. The star is the Bulgogi Burger (₩4,500) — a sweet soy-marinated pork patty that tastes distinctly Korean and nothing like Western fast food. The Shrimp Burger (₩4,800) with a crispy whole-shrimp patty reflects Korea's seafood love. Burger sets with fries run ₩7,200-7,500. For tourists, Lotteria is a fascinating window into how Korea adapted Western fast food to local tastes: sweeter, more savory flavors with bulgogi-style marinades, plus Korea-exclusive items like rice burgers and squid rings. Found near virtually every subway station. Also operates in Japan and Vietnam.