Kyochon Pilbang 교촌필방

50m from Itaewon Station. Kyochon Pilbang is Kyochon Chicken's premium restaurant concept on Bogwang-ro in Yongsan-gu, Seoul, built around a striking ink-and-calligraphy-brush motif. Entry requires pulling a large brush mounted on the wall to open the door, in a speakeasy-style reveal that sets the tone for the entire experience. Inside, dim lighting and decor incorporating ink, brushes, and water create an upscale atmosphere far removed from a typical chicken shop. The chicken is noticeably crispier than standard Kyochon offerings, and the black hop-infused chicken delivers a unique flavor without overpowering hop notes. The chicken platter presents wings and drumettes with a brush for painting on sauce, adding an interactive element to the meal. Side dishes include tteokbokki, fried peppers, and fried chicken gizzards, while limited items such as the jang-gak gui sell out quickly. A separate omakase course is also available, served directly by the chef for a more intimate dining experience. International visitors account for roughly half the clientele, reflecting the restaurant's appeal as a distinctive way to experience Korean fried chicken culture. Portions tend to be small, so ordering multiple dishes is recommended for a satisfying meal. The regular dining hall operates with fewer staff than the omakase section, which means food delivery times can stretch to 40 minutes or more during busy periods, and some diners report the chicken arriving overly dry when kitchen timing is off.