When it comes to go-to comfort food in Korean dramas, it’s always… chicken! Ayam goreng Korea!
If you’ve ever watched a K-Drama, chances are you’ve seen a scene where the characters are eating fried chicken. Whether it’s a rainy day, a night after a breakup, or a casual hangout with friends — one thing always shows up: a box of Korean fried chicken. But why chicken, specifically?
🐔 In Korea, Chicken Is Soul Food
In Korea, fried chicken is more than just a late-night snack.
It’s what people call “emotional food” — something that comforts you alone and brings happiness when shared.
Feeling stressed? → “Should we order chicken?” Tearing up while watching a drama? → “It’s even sadder without chicken…” Finished exams or got paid? → “Today calls for chicken!”
Fried chicken is always there — in joy, in sorrow, and everything in between. For many Koreans, it’s a nostalgic comfort food — a true soul food.
🎬 So Why Is It in So Many K-Dramas?
K-Dramas are masters at portraying real-life emotions.
And chicken? It’s the perfect symbol for everyday feelings and human connections.
📌 For example…
In “Crash Landing on You”, the scene where Yoon Se-ri and Ri Jeong-hyeok share fried chicken symbolizes the warmth and growing intimacy between them.
In “Hospital Playlist”, after a tough surgery, the doctors gather to eat chicken — a moment of bonding and deep friendship.
👉 A box of fried chicken becomes a tool to connect hearts. That’s why it’s so beloved in dramas.
🍻 Chimaek = Cultural Phenomenon
And don’t forget about chimaek (chicken + beer)!
Remember the iconic line from “My Love from the Star” when Jun Ji-hyun says,
"I’m craving chimaek~!"
That one scene made chimaek a global symbol of the Korean lifestyle. Korean chicken isn’t just food — it’s a culture infused with emotions, relationships, and daily life.
🧡 Korean Fried Chicken Isn’t Just Chicken
You can’t explain Korean chicken with just its crispy coating.
There’s a whole story — and feeling — inside every bite.
That piece of chicken in a K-Drama might represent comfort, celebration, tenderness, or even love.
📌 So next time you watch a K-Drama, pay special attention to the chicken scenes. You might feel something deeper than just hunger.