Yoon Hong-geun, Chairman of BBQ, Generously Supports Youth Business with 20 Billion Won

BBQ BSK store. Photo by BBQ

[Asia Economy Reporter Moon Hyewon] Genesis BBQ Group is accelerating its ESG management by actively promoting the ‘Youth Smile Project,’ which provides generous support totaling 20 billion KRW.

The Youth Smile Project is a program that supports young people in operating BSK (BBQ Smart Kitchen), BBQ’s specialized takeout and delivery stores. Applications can be submitted by teams of two until the 30th, with only one team representative required to be in their 20s or 30s, while the partner has no age restrictions. Participants are recruited across six regions: Seoul, Gyeonggi, Gangwon, Chungcheong, Yeongnam, and Honam, with a plan to select a total of 200 teams.

According to BBQ, as of the 26th, there are approximately 1,000 applicants for the Youth Smile Project.

Selected teams will receive support worth about 80 million KRW from BBQ, covering BSK store setup, interior design, facilities, and initial operating funds. The goal is not only to provide financial assistance to youth but also to help them build a foundation for economic independence and grow into successful entrepreneurs.

Since June last year, BSK has opened 350 franchise stores. BSK, a small-sized store model without dine-in (hall) service, is suitable for young people who are relatively familiar with using external delivery platforms and digital marketing. About 60% of franchise owners who have opened stores belong to the 20s and 30s age group.

Jung Sungyeop, the 25-year-old owner of the Pyeongchon Central BSK store, started his business after leaving his job where he worked for about a year following his military discharge. While contemplating his future, he noticed the rapid growth of the food delivery market due to COVID-19 and decided to start a business.

Jung, who recorded monthly sales of about 90 million KRW last month, said, “Although I decided to start a food service business after seeing the market potential, I had no related experience and was unsure where to begin. Then I came across BSK through various media, and the trust I had in the brand from long-term observation, along with the systematic training system such as Chicken University, led me to decide to start the business.”

Yoon Honggeun, Chairman of Genesis BBQ Group, said, “It was heartbreaking to see young people, who should be stepping into society with passion and enthusiasm, unable to get proper opportunities and becoming frustrated due to the economic downturn caused by COVID-19 and youth unemployment. Rather than giving them fish, we want to teach them how to fish, creating opportunities for them to take on challenges with passion.”