Still buying only Buldak ramen when you visit Korea?
Sure, that fiery chicken flavor took the world by storm and has practically become a symbol of Korean ramen.
But did you know there’s a whole universe of Korean noodles out there beyond the spice?
From spicy soup-based ramen, to stir-fried options bursting with sauce, to chilled noodles perfect for hot summers—Korea has ramen for every taste and season.
These days, ramen isn’t just a convenient meal. It’s become a must-buy edible souvenir for international travelers!
In this guide, we’ve grouped Korean ramen into three fun categories: Soup Ramen, Stir-fried Ramen, and Bibim (mixed) Ramen,
to help you pick the perfect ones during your trip to Korea.
The Soul of Korean Ramen: Soup-Based Noodles
Soup ramen is the most iconic and widely loved type of Korean instant noodles. Whether spicy or mild, its hot broth warms you from the inside out.
The Spicy Legends
- Shin Ramyun: The global face of Korean ramen! A spicy broth with chewy noodles—when you crave heat, this is your go-to.
- Yeul Ramyun: With a name that literally means “fiery,” this one’s not kidding. One sip, and you’ll be wide awake.
- Teumsae Ramyun: Flame-roasted and intensely spicy. Feels like a fire show in your mouth. For serious chili lovers only!
Smooth and Mild
- Ansungtangmyun: Like something mom would make—light broth with thin noodles. Soothing and nostalgic.
- Jin Ramen Mild: The most beginner-friendly option. Soft, smooth, and comfort in a cup.
- Sari Gomtang: Thick, milky beef broth with soft noodles. So gentle, it’s practically ramen therapy.
A Taste of the Sea
- Neoguri: Thick noodles, deep seafood broth, and a bonus piece of kelp! A true ocean lover’s ramen.
- Ojingeo Jjambbong: Bursting with squid flavor in a spicy broth. One for hardcore seafood fans.
- Jin Jjambbong: Smoky, rich, and savory. Feels like a full-on seafood stew in a bowl.
Quirky Soup Styles
- Kkokkomyun: Clear chicken broth ramen. Clean, gentle, and super slurpable.
- Budae Jjigae Ramyun: A whole army stew in ramen form—ham, sausage, and spicy broth galore.
- Saengsaeng Udon: Thick udon noodles with a cozy, Japanese-style soup. Great for a rainy day.
Sauce Explosion: Stir-Fried Ramen
No broth here! Stir-fried ramen is all about bold sauce, chewy noodles, and maximum flavor.
Black Bean Noodles (Jjajang Style)
- Jjapaghetti: The OG of Korean black bean noodles. Sweet, savory, and basically a national treasure.
- Jjawang: Thick noodles, deep flavor, and fancy vibes. The suit-and-tie version of jjajang ramen.
- Jinjjajang: Softer and sweeter sauce. Perfect for jjajang beginners.
The Fire Chicken Series
- Buldak Bokkeummyun: So spicy it’s practically evil. But once you start, it’s weirdly addictive.
- Carbo Buldak: A creamy, spicy combo of carbonara and fire chicken. It sounds strange, but it works—so well!
Cheesy & Glass Noodle Inspired
- Real Cheese Ramyun: For cheese addicts. Gooey, rich, and totally extra (in the best way).
- Ottogi Old-Fashioned Japchae: Sweet soy-glazed glass noodles. Feels like celebrating Korean holidays in five minutes.
Smoky Spicy Stir-Fried Jjambbong
※ Jjambbong is a spicy noodle soup with seafood, originally influenced by Chinese cuisine.
- Gan Jjambbong: All the seafood goodness of jjambbong, none of the broth. Wok-kissed and fabulous.
- Bokkeum Jin Jjambbong: Intensely smoky and spicy. A must-try for jjambbong fans.
Chilled and Tangy: The Summer King—Bibim Ramen
Bibim (mixed) ramen is rinsed in cold water and mixed with spicy sauce. Super refreshing for hot days!
Top Bibim Picks
- Paldo Bibimmyun: Sweet, tangy, spicy—this is the holy grail of summer noodles.
- Baehongdong: Made with pear and chili for a juicy, zesty sauce that’s hard to quit.
- Chal Bibimmyun: Bouncy noodles with a sticky, spicy glaze. So satisfying!
- Maebtaeng: Beware, this one’s hot. But if you love spice, it’s pure joy.
- Dongji Cold Bibim Naengmyeon: A ready-to-eat version of Korea’s traditional cold mixed noodles. Tart, cool, and punchy!
Chilled Broth Noodles
Not all cold noodles are spicy. These come with a chilled broth and are ultra-refreshing.
- Memil Soba: Light buckwheat noodles in soy-based broth. Minimalist and classy.
- Dongji Naengmyeon (Mulnaeng): Cold, tangy radish water broth with chewy noodles. On a hot day, nothing beats it.
New to Korean Ramen? Start Here!
If it’s your first time, start with gentler flavors and work your way up!
Mild & Friendly
- Jin Ramen Mild: Soft, cozy, and classic. You can’t go wrong here.
- Jjapaghetti: If you like sweet and savory, this black bean noodle is your best bet.
Ready for a Challenge?
- Shin Ramyun: Spicy but manageable. It’s a rite of passage in the ramen world.
- Buldak: Think you can handle the heat? This is your ultimate test.
Something Different
- Budae Jjigae Ramen: Tastes like a military stew—salty, spicy, and full of goodies.
- Real Cheese Ramen: Cheesy, funky, and totally unique. If you like mac and cheese, give it a try!
👉 Need help finding a Korean supermarket?
Check out this guide: 8 Korean Supermarkets You Probably Didn’t Know
Bonus Tips: How Koreans Eat Ramen Like Pros
Koreans know how to upgrade a bowl of ramen. You should try it too!
- Add an Egg: Soft-boiled or stirred in, eggs = instant luxury.
- Add Cheese: Just one slice of cheese turns spicy ramen into creamy heaven.
- Add Scallions or Kimchi: Add crunch and flavor in one go.
- Tone Down the Heat: Add milk or cheese to calm down those spicy flames.
- Mix in Rice: Don’t waste that leftover soup—pour it over rice and dig in!
- Eat with Seaweed: Wrap noodles in seaweed for a crispy, salty twist.