Why Ramyeon is Korea's Ultimate Soul Food

From post-war survival to a global pop culture phenomenon, explore the 60-year journey of instant noodles in Korea.

Global Spotlight Story

In 1963, Samyang Foods introduced the first Korean instant noodle...

K-ramyeon has gone truly global, landing on dining tables from New York to Paris to Jakarta. Dedicated K-ramyeon shops are opening worldwide, and local supermarkets now carry entire sections dedicated to Korean instant noodles.

Consumers in each country have embraced K-ramyeon in their own unique ways. Fusion recipes combining local ingredients are emerging, and some are even finding their way back to Korea in a fascinating cultural exchange.

"More than just food — Why Ramyeon is Korea's Ultimate Soul Food has become a cultural icon that defines a generation."