A list of interesting and memorable KFC TV commercials.

What's the secret behind those videos that make us laugh, nod in agreement, and then suddenly crave a bite of "Finger-licking" chicken? This article will dissect some of the most classic KFC TV commercials in the world and in Vietnam, and decipher the formula behind their enduring success.

KFC and the art of advertising with the "crispy taste"

To understand KFC's TV commercials, one must first understand their unique advertising philosophy. Unlike many other brands that strive for perfection, KFC builds its image on very distinct personalities:

• Confident and proud of our heritage: They never concealed their "old" origins. On the contrary, they celebrated Colonel Sanders, making him a central figure, a living legacy.
• Funny and somewhat "quirky": KFC's advertisements aren't afraid to be quirky, even intentionally silly. This difference is what makes them stand out from a sea of safe and boring ads.
• Make the product the star: No matter how "crazy" the story is, the fried chicken always remains the main star. Close-up shots, showcasing the crispness, heat, and appeal of the product (food porn), are never missing.

This combination has created a unique advertising DNA, keeping audiences eagerly anticipating what surprise KFC will bring next.

Global Campaign: When Colonel Sanders Became a Pop Culture Icon

The foundation for the success of KFC's TV commercials in Vietnam is built upon iconic global campaigns:

1. The Rebirth of Colonel Sanders

This is one of the most genial marketing moves of the 21st century. Instead of sticking to a single image, KFC invited a host of actors and celebrities (from actor Rob Lowe to singer Reba McEntire) to play Colonel Sanders. Each brought a unique personality: sometimes sophisticated, sometimes humorous, sometimes adventurous. This strategy transformed a historical figure into a vibrant, ever-evolving, and surprising pop culture icon.

2. “It’s Finger Lickin’ Good” – An immortal slogan

The slogan "Finger-Stick Tasty" is more than just a description; it's a promise of a complete and uninhibited dining experience. The pinnacle of this strategy was KFC's bold decision to temporarily suspend the slogan globally during the COVID-19 pandemic for hygiene reasons. This action not only didn't cause harm but also generated a massive media buzz, making people realize just how much they loved and missed the slogan.

KFC's TV commercials have made a strong impression on the Vietnamese market.

Bringing that creative and humorous spirit to Vietnam, KFC has skillfully "localized" its campaigns to suit the culture and tastes of local consumers. Some famous KFC TV commercials include:

1. KFC Tet TVC – When fried chicken becomes a part of family reunion.

This is KFC's most successful localization strategy. Understanding the importance of family reunion meals during Tet (Lunar New Year), KFC created heartwarming videos where the bucket of fried chicken becomes the centerpiece of a modern family feast.

• Strategy & Insight: Instead of competing with traditional dishes, KFC positions itself as a convenient and fun alternative, giving mothers more time to relax while still maintaining a complete family reunion atmosphere. The KFC Tet TV commercial doesn't sell chicken, but sells moments of togetherness, laughter, and bonding.
• For example: The TV commercials often feature multi-generational family scenes, with children and grandchildren returning home for Tet (Lunar New Year) to enjoy crispy fried chicken together. The music is always cheerful Tet melodies, creating a warm and familiar feeling.

2. New product launch TV commercial – A feast for the taste buds

When launching limited-edition products like Thai-style HITS Chicken, Pepper Roast Chicken, and Salted Egg Chicken, KFC focuses all its efforts on stimulating the taste buds of viewers.

• Strategy & Insight: These films make full use of "food porn" techniques. They are a feast of images and sounds.
• For example: The TV commercial will be filled with close-up slow-motion shots of chicken glistening in sauce, its crispy skin cracking, or steam rising. The sound is meticulously crafted, especially the satisfying crunch of biting into the chicken, creating an irresistible craving. The music is typically fast, powerful, and modern, fitting the product's trendy nature.

KFC TV commercial in Vietnam

3. KFC promotional TV commercial – Hitting the mark with the "good price" demand.

Targeting students, young families, and the general public, TV commercials promoting affordable combo deals (such as the 99k Combo, Shocking Price Golden Hour, etc.) always follow a very clear formula.

• Strategy & Insight: To convey the message quickly, concisely, and directly.
• For example: These TV commercials typically have a very fast pace, upbeat music, attractive product images displayed continuously, and large, clear price figures. They don't tell lengthy stories; they present an enticing offer that customers find hard to refuse.

4. TV commercial telling the brand story – “Finger-licking deliciousness”

In addition to campaign-specific TV commercials, KFC also has general advertising videos to reinforce brand loyalty.

• Strategy & Insight: A reminder of the core value – the joy and enjoyment of eating at KFC.
• For example: These TV commercials typically don't focus on a specific product, but rather on groups of friends, couples, families, etc., sharing joyful moments together around a bucket of KFC chicken. The message is simple: KFC is a brand of joy and memorable moments.

Watching this TV commercial makes you want to eat KFC fried chicken right away.

Decoding the formula for a successful KFC TV commercial.

From the examples above, we can summarize the formula that has made KFC TV commercials so appealing:

• Celebrating the "product" as the brightest star: No matter how touching or funny the story is, KFC's fried chicken is always filmed perfectly. The visual appeal of the product is an element that is never overlooked.
• A seamless blend of heritage and modernity: KFC is a master at using Colonel Sanders' (legacy) image and placing him in unexpected, modern contexts. This helps the brand maintain historical depth without becoming outdated.
• Dare to be funny and "quirky" in a smart way: KFC's humor isn't the silly kind; it's confident, sometimes self-deprecating humor. They're not afraid of being seen as "weird," and that's what makes them interesting and memorable.
• Deep understanding of local culture: The resounding success of their Tet (Lunar New Year) campaigns in Vietnam is the clearest proof. KFC doesn't mechanically impose a global advertising model. They research local insights and create stories specifically for Vietnamese people, using Vietnamese language and emotions.

The journey of KFC's TV commercials is a valuable marketing lesson. They proved that a long-standing brand can absolutely maintain its freshness and appeal if it knows how to tell its story creatively, boldly, and sincerely. They don't just sell fried chicken; they sell joy, togetherness, and a strong brand personality.

KFC's success stems from a masterful combination of a consistent global brand identity and a deep understanding of local culture. Each of their commercials is proof that when you truly understand and respect your customers, you not only sell products but also win a special place in their hearts.