Seoul: In an exclusive interview, celebrity chef and CEO of Theborn Korea Inc., Paik Jong-won, revealed plans to significantly increase the number of Korean restaurants in international markets. Bornga and Saemaeul Restaurant, some of the popular brands under Theborn Korea, are already frequented by both South Korean tourists and locals in various countries, offering a taste of Korean cuisine popularized by television shows. According to Yonhap News Agency, Paik announced that the number of overseas outlets is expected to rise dramatically in the next two years, driven by the growing demand for Korean foods fueled by popular K-content. This includes shows like Netflix's "Culinary Class Wars," where Paik served as a judge. Theborn Korea currently boasts 149 outlets across 14 countries, alongside 2,917 franchise shops in South Korea under 25 food and beverage brands. Paik disclosed that Theborn Korea signed a master franchise deal with a firm in Taiwan last year and is in discussions for more such agreements. Master franchise deals allow the franchisee to open and sub-franchise units, strengthening the company's global presence. The expansion plans follow Theborn Korea's successful IPO on South Korea's main stock market. The IPO raised over 100 billion won, with at least 90 billion won earmarked for acquiring companies specializing in sauces and food technologies. Paik emphasized that sauce exports will be a major growth driver as international demand for Korean foods like kimchi increases. Paik also mentioned exploring large-scale "K-town" projects abroad, where Theborn Korea could supply its brands' foods and beverages. In addition to franchises, the company offers ready-made meals, processed goods, sauces, and kitchen utensils, and operates a hotel on Jeju Island. Theborn Korea anticipates a 10 to 15 percent growth in sales this year, having posted record sales of 410.7 billion won in the previous year. On the entertainment front, Paik is open to returning for the second season of "Culinary Class Wars," whic h he believes has the potential to further promote Korean cuisine globally.