Chipotle has announced a joint venture with SPC Group to bring its restaurants to Asia, marking its debut in the region.

The first Chipotle locations are set to open in South Korea and Singapore in 2026.

The move is a response to the growing popularity of the brand among Korean consumers, including K-Pop artists, who have expressed their fondness for Chipotle's offerings.

Chipotle chief executive officer Scott Boatwright stated: "With a rapidly evolving dining-out business, fuelled by preferences for variety and convenience, expanding into Asia presents an incredible growth opportunity for Chipotle.

"Real food prepared fast is in high demand in these markets and with notable brand awareness among consumers, we see potential for strong adoption out of the gate."

The brand's connection with Korean consumers was notably strengthened when a member of the best-selling K-pop group BTS (Bangtan Sonyeondan, or Bangtan Boys) mentioned his love for Chipotle.

In 2023, Chipotle gained further recognition from members of a K-pop girl group who shared their desire for the brand in their home country.

Following its first international development agreement in July 2023 with Alshaya Group for the Middle East, Chipotle continued its global expansion, opening six restaurants in Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates.

In April 2025, Chipotle partnered Alsea to establish its presence in Mexico, where the first location will open in 2026.

Chipotle's current international operations include more than 60 restaurants in Canada, 20 in the UK, six in France and two in Germany.

The company operates 3,800 restaurants globally and aims to open 345 locations in 2025.

With a long-term goal of reaching 7,000 restaurants in the US and Canada, Chipotle's business development group is actively seeking additional growth opportunities through external partnerships.

SPC Group executive vice-president and owner Heesoo Hur stated: "Given the familiarity of this iconic brand among Koreans and Singaporeans, and their passion for exceptional culinary experiences, these two markets are ideal entry points for Chipotle in Asia.

"In addition, we have a proven track record of developing global brands and we see an opportunity for leveraging our market expertise to introduce Chipotle's delicious, responsibly sourced food to guests across the continent who aren't yet familiar with the concept's real ingredients prepared fresh daily."