Chipotle opens first Asian restaurant in Seoul's Gangnam district

Chipotle Mexican Grill opened its first restaurant in Asia in early September, located in the Gangnam district of Seoul, South Korea. The location marks the company's initial expansion attempt into the region and its first business entry through a joint venture rather than a wholly owned subsidiary. Construction lines formed outside the facility before opening hours began. Local diners reportedly waited up to three hours during busy periods to purchase food. Social media discussions among Korean users included comparisons between local wait times and travel options. The partnership involves Sangmidang Holdings, which previously facilitated the entry of Shake Shack into South Korea. Big Bite Company, an affiliate of Sangmidang Holdings, controls 51% ownership of the new entity, S&C Restaurants Holdings. Chipotle holds the remaining 49% stake. Nate Lawton, Chipotle's chief business development officer, described the collaboration as an evolution of global growth strategy. The U.S. fast-casual chain maintains established operations in Canada and Europe while pursuing additional partnership opportunities across the Middle East and Mexico.