USA pizzeria franchise Papa John's, which entered South Korea in July 2003, has reached a landmark in its rapid roll out by opening its 50th restaurant in the country. Franchisee PJI Korea plans to continue its expansion with the goal of reaching 90 restaurants by the end of 2007.

"The success of the South Korean market starts at the top with an outstanding franchisee, PJI Korea, led by operating partner James Cho and chief executive officer Channgwoo Soh, who demonstrate outstanding leadership and vision," says Papa John's Chief Financial Officer and acting Managing Director of the company's International division David Flanery. "Equally important, PJI Korea and its 50 restaurants have made product quality a top priority and have delivered on Papa John's promise of better ingredients, better pizza."

Myles Felt, Papa John's Vice President of International Operations, adds: "We are very pleased with PJI Korea's restaurant-level performance to date, and their commitment to the Papa John's brand. Their innovative marketing and advertising strategies, and recently launched national call centre and nationwide customer service number, are all key to PJI Korea's success."