The film “Parasite” famously showcased “Chapaguri” (a fusion of Nongshim’s Chapaghetti and Neoguri products), garnering significant attention on the international stage. (Image courtesy of Nongshim)
SEOUL, Sept. 4 (Korea Bizwire) – Sept. 15 will mark the 60th anniversary of Korean ramen’s birth.
In its early days, ramen (Korean instant noodles) was considered the quintessential “common people’s food” — a quick and simple meal.
However, it has now evolved into a global culinary phenomenon, leading the charge in domestic food exports.
In the first seven months of this year alone, the cumulative value of ramen exports exceeded an impressive US$500 million for the very first time, setting a record high for this period.
According to data released by the Korea Agro-Fisheries & Food Trade Corp. and the Korea Customs Service, the total value of ramen exports from January to July reached an astounding $520.29 million.
This represents a substantial 17.7 percent increase compared to the same period last year, when exports amounted to $443.34 million, the previous record.
The surge in demand for Korean ramen overseas can be largely attributed to the global dissemination of K-content.
Korean cinema and television productions have prominently featured ramen, sparking heightened interest in Korean culinary culture.
For instance, the film “Parasite” famously showcased “Chapaguri” (a fusion of Nongshim’s Chapaghetti and Neoguri products), garnering significant attention on the international stage.
A spokesperson from Nongshim noted, “As Korean culture continues to gain popularity worldwide, Korean instant noodles have naturally become a subject of fascination.”
A customer looks at a ramyeon package while browsing at a retail outlet in Seoul in this file photo taken July 5, 2023. (Yonhap)
This phenomenon was further accelerated by milestones like the Academy Award win for “Parasite” in 2020 and the ripple effect of K-pop supergroup BTS.
The influence of social networking service (SNS) has further amplified this trend.
For instance, Samyang Food’s buldak fried noodles gained notoriety when BTS’ member Jimin was seen enjoying them during live broadcasts, leading to SNS challenges where individuals from various countries attempted to taste the product.
Additionally, the persistent preference for convenient food options during the ongoing coronavirus pandemic has bolstered Korean ramen exports.
An industry expert pointed out, “Korean ramen possesses the unique advantage of delivering rich flavors, substantial nutrition, and a glimpse into Korean culinary culture, all within a single meal concept.”
Both industry professionals and academics anticipate a continued surge in the demand for Korean ramen in the foreseeable future.
A representative from Samyang Food expressed, “With the globalization of K-content, we expect the global demand for K-food to rise.
The pandemic and increasing inflation have driven the need for cost-effective consumption, further expanding the market for Korean ramen.”
Lina Jang (linajang@koreabizwire.com)
