Hongdae is the place where the hippest things in Seoul can be found. But did you know there is a unique convenience store that has become a must-visit destination for both domestic and international visitors? Join us as we explore this convenience store specializing in ramyeon, where you can pick and make your own noodles on the ramyeon cooker!

1. What’s the Deal with the CU Hongdae Sangsang Branch’s Ramyun Library?

One wall of the CU Hongdae Sangsang Branch is dedicated to the “Ramyun Library,” a massive collection of instant noodles found in Korea. This massive display case with 100 compartments seems to say, “Welcome! We didn’t know what you like, so we just got everything!” Indeed, there are nearly 105 instant noodle products on display, including 90 from well-known Korean brands such as Buldak Ramen and Shin Ramyun. Considering that most convenience stores offer about 30 types of instant noodles, the collection here is three times as large as those found in most stores.

Even if you aren’t familiar with Korean instant noodles, the Ramyun Library has multilingual labels (English, Japanese, and Chinese) that provide information on price, characteristics, and the spice level of each noodle, making it easy to choose one that fits your preference. For your reference, Shin Ramyun, one of the most popular instant noodles in Korea, is labeled as “VERY HOT” (level 4). Also, note that instant noodles described as MILD (level 1) may still include some spices, such as pepper.

Even the tables in Ramyun Library follow the theme. If you would like, you can take a picture with the cup noodles-shaped table to remember your visit!

2. New to K-Ramyeon? Start with Our Top 3 Picks!

First time cooking instant noodles? Are the instructions on the back too small to read? No worries! There’s a perfect way to cook instant noodles for anyone. First, choose the ramyeon. Then, pay for the ramyeon along with a paper vessel (900 won) suitable for your ramyeon. After, simply use the ramyeon cooker to prepare your meal! It won’t be too difficult, as the instructions and recommended recipes are conveniently located next to the ramyeon cooker.

>> How to Use the Instant Noodle Cooker

① Open the ramyeon package and put the noodles and seasoning into the paper vessel.

② Scan the package barcode using the barcode reader.

③ Place the paper vessel on the cooking surface.

④ Press the “Start Cooking” button.

⑤ When the noodles are done cooking, remove the vessel.

⑥ Enjoy your noodles!

If you find yourself overwhelmed by the vast diversity of ramyeon available, you might want to start with the bestsellers. Add toppings to your liking, and you’ll have a meal that is truly worth your visit. Here are some of the ramyeon dishes we cooked in the store, so take note!

BEST 1. Budaejjigae Noodle Soup

Introduction | Premium ramyeon inspired by sausage jjigae (budaejjigae)

Spice Level | ★★★☆☆ (HOT)

Price | 1,600 won

Flavor | This noodle enjoys a loyal following in Korea, thanks to its rich ox bone-based broth. It also offers a wide selection of ingredients, from sausage and fishcake to kimchi, green onions, and rice cake, allowing you to enjoy a delightful mix of textures similar to those found in freshly prepared sausage jjigae.

Recommended Topping | Round out the heat with a slice of cheese.

BEST 2. Ansungtangmyun Mild

Introduction | A mild ramyeon with deep and elegant chicken-based soup

Spice Level | ★☆☆☆☆ (MILD)

Price | 900 won

Flavor | This is the mild version of the beloved classic, Ansungtangmyun. Though the soup may appear red like other ramyeon, it does not contain chili pepper powder. Instead, this beef-and-chicken-based soup is flavored with soybean paste, imbuing it with a rich and savory taste.

Recommended Topping | Enhance your dish with the juicy and tender mandu.

BEST 3. Sesame Ramen

Introduction | A rich and spicy soup enhanced with sesame, eggs, and sesame oil

Spice Level | ★★★☆☆ (HOT)

Price | 1,350 won

Flavor | This package includes an egg block and a chili oil packet, which combine to produce the unique flavors of the Sesame Ramen. Struggling to imagine the taste? Think of a warm bowl of egg drop soup, enriched with sesame oil, but spicier. If you aren’t accustomed to spicy foods, start with half the chili oil packet. For a fuller egg texture, crack an egg into the soup!

Recommended Topping | Soften the heat and saltiness with a cracked egg.

Feeling tempted yet? Head over to Hongdae, the young and hip hangout of Seoul, to discover the best instant noodle recipe of your life!

CU Hongdae Sangsang Branch

Address: 25 Jandari-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 마포구 잔다리로 25)

Operating hours: Open 24 hr

Inquiries: +82-507-1324-2463

Instagram: @cu_official

More info

1330 Korea Travel Helpline: +82-2-1330 (Korean, English, Japanese, Chinese, Russian, Vietnamese, Thai, Malay)

* This column was last updated in March 2024, and therefore information may differ from what is presented here. We advise you to check for updates from the official website before visiting.

COPYRIGHTS ©KOREA TOURISM ORGANIZATION. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED www.visitkorea.or.kr

USAG Yongsan

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