The wait is over! “I’m Donut?”, the beloved Japanese donut brand that began in Fukuoka, has officially opened its first store in South Korea. The grand opening took place on September 27, 2025, in the trendy Seongsu-dong district of Seoul — a neighborhood known as the city’s creative and cultural hub.

A Sweet New Chapter in Seoul

Founded by Chef Ryota Hirako, “I’m Donut?” has captured global attention with its playful name, artisanal recipes, and beautifully crafted donuts. The Seoul store is already drawing crowds, offering 26 different donut varieties, from fluffy classics to unique innovations.

To mark its debut, the brand also introduced six Korea-exclusive donuts inspired by local flavors and food culture — giving customers a special taste they can’t find anywhere else in the world.

Beyond Donuts: Lifestyle & Experience

The Seongsu store goes beyond being just a bakery. Fans can also shop for exclusive “I’m Donut?” merchandise, including tote bags, mugs, and collectible items. This strategy reinforces the brand’s identity as not just a food outlet, but a lifestyle experience.

Inside, the store design combines Japanese minimalism with Korean urban aesthetics, making it a must-visit spot for both donut lovers and Instagram enthusiasts.

Korean Expansion Under Expert Leadership

The local business is operated by Eight Ground, led by CEO Changmin Kang, a veteran of South Korea’s F&B industry. Kang has successfully translated the brand’s Japanese identity into the Korean market while staying true to Chef Hirako’s original philosophy of quality and creativity.

The company has announced plans to open more stores across Seoul, riding on the city’s booming café and dessert culture. With the Seongsu launch already a success, industry experts expect “I’m Donut?” to become a strong competitor in Korea’s premium dessert market.

What This Means for Donut Franchising

For franchise watchers, “I’m Donut?” is a case study of how boutique dessert brands can expand internationally with the right local partners. Its Korea launch highlights the growing demand for unique, high-quality donut brands and the opportunities for franchising in Asia’s thriving café culture.

As the donut franchise sector evolves, “I’m Donut?” shows how brands that focus on authenticity, creativity, and cultural adaptation can thrive globally.

Conclusion: Why Work With DonutFranchiseMaster.com and Star Brands Consulting Group

At DonutFranchiseMaster.com, powered by Star Brands Consulting Group, we specialize in helping investors and entrepreneurs connect with the world’s leading donut and café franchises. Whether you’re inspired by the success of “I’m Donut?” in Korea or exploring other global donut brands, our consulting team provides:

• Expert market entry strategies for international expansion.
• Franchise matchmaking services to link investors with top-performing brands.
• Business planning and financial modeling tailored to local markets.
• Brand development and operational support for new entrants.

The opening of “I’m Donut?” in Seoul is proof that the donut business is booming globally. If you’re considering investing in a donut franchise, expanding your portfolio, or bringing an exciting dessert concept to your region, DonutFranchiseMaster.com and Star Brands Consulting Group are your trusted partners for success.