Ramyeon

Ramyeon is a Korean noodle soup dish built around instant noodles. In Korea, the term ramyeon (ramyun) refers to these prepared noodle meals, which are typically sold as a dried noodle block with a seasoning packet and often a dehydrated vegetable mix. While it shares a common origin with ramen, ramyeon denotes the Korean style and branding found in instant varieties.

The modern ramyeon market developed in South Korea with the spread of instant noodles in the latter half of the 20th century. A landmark product is Shin Ramyun from Nongshim, introduced in 1986, which helped popularize spicy, flavorful ramyeon both domestically and abroad. Since then, numerous brands offer a wide range of flavors, including beef, seafood, vegetable, and non-spicy options, reflecting regional tastes and global demand for convenient hot meals.

Preparation is quick and simple: boil the noodle block in water, add the included seasoning, and stir in any dehydrated vegetables. Additional ingredients such as eggs, sliced meat, cheese, or kimchi are commonly used to customize the dish. The result is a ready-to-eat soup or a meal that can be adjusted for heat, richness, and texture.

Ramyeon has a substantial presence in South Korean daily life and is widely exported. It is valued for affordability and convenience but is also noted for high sodium content. It remains a staple in homes, dormitories, and convenience stores, contributing to both casual dining and contemporary food culture.