Kongdog Franchise FDD, Profits & Costs (2025)
Kongdog is a fast-growing American franchise that puts a modern twist on the classic corn dog by blending it with bold Korean-inspired flavors. The brand was established in September 2021 in Glenview, Illinois, and quickly captured attention. Just a few months later, in December 2021, the first franchise unit opened near the University of Illinois at Chicago.
Based in Chicago, Illinois, Kongdog has expanded at an impressive pace, now boasting more than 30 locations across the country. Its presence stretches into multiple states, including New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Virginia.
The franchise is best known for its Korean-style corn dogs, featuring a creative lineup of menu items such as the Hot Cheeto Kong Dog, Spaghetti Kong Dog, and the eye-catching Rainbow Kong Dog.
What truly differentiates Kongdog is its focus on delivering a fresh, customizable food experience designed to connect with younger diners. With its colorful food presentations and strong social media presence—especially on TikTok—the brand has built a devoted following and positioned itself as a trendsetter in the fast-casual dining space.
Initial Investment
How much does it cost to start a Kongdog franchise? It costs on average between $138,000 – $636,000 to start a Kongdog franchised restaurant.
This covers expenses such as construction, equipment, inventory, and initial operating costs. The total amount can vary based on several factors, including the size and type of restaurant, the market location, and whether the franchisee decides to lease or buy the property.
| Type of Expenditure | Amount |
|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee | $25,000 |
| Training Expenses | $3,000 – $5,000 |
| Lease & Utilities Deposits | $3,000 – $25,000 |
| Architectural Plans | $3,000 – $15,000 |
| Leasehold Improvements and Construction | $10,000 – $200,000 |
| Furniture, Fixtures, Equipment, Computers, and Communications System | $30,000 – $159,000 |
| Signage | $10,000 – $40,000 |
| Business Licenses and Permits | $2,000 – $5,000 |
| POS System | $750 – $1,500 |
| Initial Inventory | $30,000 – $70,000 |
| Professional Fees | $2,000 – $10,000 |
| Grand Opening Advertising | $1,000 – $3,000 |
| Insurance | $3,000 – $12,000 |
| Operating Expenses / Additional Funds – 3 months | $15,000 – $65,000 |
| TOTAL | $137,750 – $635,500 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many Kongdog locations are there?
As of the latest available data, Kongdog operates a total of four locations in the United States. Out of these, two are company-owned units, while the remaining two are franchise-owned.
What is the total investment required to open a Kongdog franchise?
The total investment required to open a Kongdog franchise ranges from $136,000 to $636,000.
What are the ongoing fees for a Kongdog franchise?
Kongdog franchisees are required to pay ongoing fees that include a royalty fee of 5% of gross sales. In addition, there is a marketing and advertising fee of 2% of gross sales, which contributes to the brand’s promotional efforts and national marketing initiatives.
What are the financial requirements to become a Kongdog franchisee?
To qualify as a Kongdog franchisee, you need to meet certain financial requirements. The franchise requires a minimum net worth of $300,000 and at least $100,000 in liquid capital. These financial thresholds ensure that potential franchise owners have the necessary resources to cover startup costs, maintain operations, and support the business during its early growth stages.
Who owns Kongdog?
The Kongdog franchise is owned by Kong Dog Inc., a company headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, that was founded in 2021.
Disclaimer
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