The Best Korean Instant Noodles According to The New York Times

Korean instant noodles are earning global acclaim, with seven products named among the world’s best by Wirecutter, a review platform operated by The New York Times.

On January 13, Wirecutter unveiled its list of the “Best Instant Noodles,” which featured 17 products, seven of which are Korean. The lineup included Nongshim’s Shin Ramyun Black, Shin Ramyun Light, and Neoguri; Samyang’s Buldak Quattro Cheese and Buldak Jjajang; and Paldo’s Jin Juk Gompaghetti (export version) and Jin Juk Seolleongtang.

Why Korean Ramen Stood Out

The review panel, comprising cookbook authors, ramen shop owners, and instant noodle experts, evaluated 35 products based on criteria such as beef broth, seafood flavor, creaminess, spiciness, and classic noodle taste. Korean ramen stood out for its bold flavors and unique characteristics:

Shin Ramyun Black: Praised for its deep flavor from beef and pork bone broth.

Shin Ramyun Light: Known for its clear, refreshing broth.

Neoguri: Highlighted for its rich, seaweed-infused seafood flavor.

Buldak Quattro Cheese and Buldak Jjajang: Applauded for balancing intense spiciness with cheese and black bean sauce, respectively.

Jin Juk Gompaghetti: Noted for its fusion of traditional Korean and Italian flavors.

Jin Juk Seolleongtang: Valued for its versatility, allowing customization with ingredients like eggs and green onions.

The Global Rise of Korean Ramen

Korean ramen’s popularity isn’t just reflected in reviews; it’s also evident in soaring exports. According to the Korea Trade Statistics Promotion Institute, Korean ramen exports reached $1.25 billion in 2023, marking a 31.1% year-over-year growth—the highest growth rate to date.

Cultural moments like the appearance of “Jjapaguri” (Chapagetti + Neoguri) in the Oscar-winning film Parasite and BTS’s Jungkook sharing his Buldak recipe have propelled Korean ramen into the global spotlight. More recently, on TikTok, rapper Cardi B jumped on the viral TikTok trend by trying Buldak Ramen Noodles for the first time. Cardi B shared her cooking and tasting experience on her personal TikTok account, piquing fans' curiosities for her reaction.

Industry Expansion and Future Growth

Korean ramen manufacturers are doubling down on international growth with aggressive investments:

Nongshim expanded its second U.S. production facility in October 2023 and plans to open a new export-focused factory in early 2024.

Samyang is set to launch its new Millyang plant in May, increasing production efficiency with advanced technology. The company has also established a Netherlands subsidiary to penetrate the European market and is planning its first overseas factory in China.

With these strategic moves and growing recognition, Korean ramen is poised to cement its position as a global culinary favorite.