Samyang Foods Executive Thanks BTS’ Jimin for Boosting Popularity of Its Instant Noodle

This photo, provided by Samyang Foods Co., shows several types of “Buldak Bokkeummyeon,” a popular hot chicken-flavor type of instant noodles, commonly known as “fire ramen.”

SEOUL, Aug. 19 (Korea Bizwire) — An executive of major South Korean foodmaker Samyang Foods Co. has thanked Jimin, a member of K-pop superband BTS, after reporting record-breaking quarterly sales.

Samyang generated 27.3 billion won (US$20 million) in operating profits in the second quarter, up by 92 percent, and reported 255.3 billion won in revenue, up 73 percent from last year.

The company’s revenue and profits were both records for the second quarter and were led by exports of Hot Chicken Flavor Ramen or “Buldak Bokkeummyeon,” a popular hot chicken-flavor type of instant noodles.

Exports in the second quarter amounted to 183.3 billion won, up 110 percent from last year, and a new record for the second quarter.

“I am a fan of BTS and I thank Jimin for enjoying our Buldak noodles in various media appearances, which has made a significant contribution to sales,” said Samyang Foods Vice Chairman Kim Jung-soo.

Jimin was frequently seen eating Hot Chicken Flavor Ramen on live online broadcasts and other media, starting a worldwide Buldak Bokkeummyeon tryout challenge.

In response, Samyang Foods was one of the main sponsors for the BTS concert series held in Las Vegas in April.

Ashley Song (ashley@koreabizwire.com)