Under what circumstances are franchisees exempt from attending the Bonchon Initial Training Program or Partner Training Program?
Bonchon Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Notwithstanding the foregoing, however, if you and we are parties to an Area Development Agreement and you have previously opened two Restaurants pursuant to two separate unit franchise agreements, then neither you nor any Operating Principal will have the obligation or the right to attend an additional Initial Training Program or Partner Training Program (as applicable). However, at least two (2) people – a General Manager and an assistant or other named manager – must complete the Initial Training Program to our satisfaction and both persons must intend to work in the Restaurant on a full-time basis.
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPTS (FDD pages 92–536)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Bonchon's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees are typically required to complete the Initial Training Program or Partner Training Program. However, there is an exception: if a franchisee has an Area Development Agreement with Bonchon and has already opened two restaurants under separate franchise agreements, neither the franchisee nor their Operating Principal is obligated to attend an additional Initial Training Program or Partner Training Program.
Even with this exception, Bonchon still requires that at least two individuals, specifically a General Manager and an assistant or other named manager, complete the Initial Training Program to Bonchon's satisfaction. Both of these individuals must also intend to work full-time at the restaurant. This ensures that each Bonchon location has adequately trained staff, even if the franchisee or Operating Principal is exempt from attending the training themselves.
This policy ensures that even multi-unit franchisees who may not directly manage day-to-day operations still have qualified staff running each location. It also highlights Bonchon's emphasis on maintaining consistent operational standards across all franchised locations, regardless of the franchisee's experience level.