Kongdog: Reinventing the Corn Dog Experience

Kongdog is an innovative American franchise that has reimagined the traditional corn dog by infusing it with Korean culinary flair. Founded in September 2021 in Glenview, Illinois, Kong Dog quickly gained popularity, with its first franchise location opening in December 2021 near the University of Illinois at Chicago.

The company is headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, and has rapidly expanded to over 30 locations across the United States, including in states like New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Virginia.

Kongdog specializes in Korean-style corn dogs, offering a diverse menu that includes creative options such as the Hot Cheeto Kong Dog, Spaghetti Kong Dog, and Rainbow Kong Dog.

What sets Kongdog apart is its commitment to delivering a trendy and customizable dining experience that resonates with younger audiences. The brand leverages visually appealing food presentations and vibrant social media marketing, especially on platforms like TikTok, to build a loyal following.

Training

Kongdog provides a comprehensive training structure for franchisees to ensure operational success and brand consistency across its locations. The programs are designed to support new openings and ongoing operations.

1. Initial Management Training Program: Franchisees and up to four key personnel must attend a seven-day training course at a designated location, at least 10 days before opening. There is no tuition fee for this training, but the franchisee bears all travel, lodging, meals, and wage expenses.
2. Opening Assistance: Kongdog provides up to three days of on-site support during the opening phase of the franchise. This service is free and includes supervision and guidance from a trained representative.
3. Ongoing and Additional Training: Franchisees may be required to attend up to three days of ongoing training each year, plus a national meeting or convention. Attendance is mandatory, and the current fee for the annual event is $1,000 per person, excluding travel and accommodation costs.
4. On-Site Remedial Training: If requested or deemed necessary, Kongdog provides additional training at the franchise location. Franchisees must cover a per diem fee plus all associated travel, lodging, and meal costs for the trainers.
5. Replacement Manager Training: Any new manager appointed after opening must complete the initial training at a cost of $500 per person per day, in addition to all travel-related expenses.
6. Consultation and Support: Ongoing support is available via phone, email, or in-person consultation, subject to staff availability, and is generally offered at no charge unless conducted on-site.

Territory Protection

Kongdog grants franchisees a defined territory, typically a five-mile radius or an area with 50,000 people, but it is not exclusive. While the franchisor agrees not to open another Kongdog outlet within this area during the term of the agreement—so long as the franchisee is in good standing—it retains significant rights.

Kongdog may still distribute its products through other channels such as malls, airports, or online platforms within the same area.

Furthermore, franchisees may only operate at their approved location and are restricted from selling or soliciting customers outside of their assigned territory. However, the franchisor can operate or authorize other Kongdog outlets adjacent to, or bordering, the territory.