The Best Korean Ramen to Ignite Your Taste Buds

When it comes to instant noodles, Korean ramen takes the crown for bold flavors, unique spice levels, and unforgettable tastes. From fiery bowls of Buldak to comforting classics like Shin Ramyun, Korean ramen has something for every craving. In this guide, we’ll walk you through some of the best Korean ramen brands and their most popular flavors—from classic favorites to cup noodles for when you’re on the go.

Top 10 Best Korean Ramen

1. NONGSHIM Shin Ramen

NONGSHIM Shin Ramen is Korea’s best-selling ramen, holding the top spot for over 34 years since its launch in 1986. Known for its rich beef-based broth and perfect balance of heat from its signature chili paste, Shin Ramen delivers a deep, savory flavor enhanced by shiitake mushrooms. This bold yet well-balanced taste makes it easy to customize into various recipes. Whether you add a soft-boiled egg, cheese, or stir-fry it with vegetables and protein, Shin Ramyun is a versatile base that suits any craving—comforting and endlessly adaptable. With Shin Ramen, the possibilities are endless!

2. NONGSHIM Chapagetti

NONGSHIM Chapagetti has been a Korean favorite since its launch in 1984, holding the second spot in ramen sales after Shin Ramen. Known for its rich black bean paste sauce, Chapagetti delivers the authentic taste of jjajangmyeon with savory, slightly sweet flavors. The chewy noodles are coated in a thick, comforting sauce, making it easy to enjoy a satisfying meal. Popular for its role in the viral “Jjapaguri” dish, Chapagetti is also highly customizable!

3. OTTOGI Jin Ramen

OTTOGI Jin Ramen is a beloved Korean instant noodle, available in both spicy and mild varieties. Known for its beef-based broth, it offers a perfect balance of savory and spicy flavors. The chewy noodles and rich, flavorful broth make it a comforting classic. Competing with Nongshim Chapagetti for top rankings, Jin Ramen remains a favorite for its versatility and satisfying taste, whether enjoyed on its own or with your favorite toppings.

4. SAMYANG Buldak Ramen

Samyang Buldak Ramen is a legendary instant noodle, made famous by the viral "fire noodle challenge," leading Samyang Foods into its second golden era. Known for its intense spicy kick and chili-based sauce, Buldak is both fiery and addictive. The chewy noodles are coated in a savory, subtly sweet sauce that’s irresistibly addictive, keeping you hooked from the first slurp to the last. It draws in everyone—from those who can’t handle spice to spice lovers—into a fun, torturous cycle. While the original Buldak Ramen is a classic, the carbonara flavor is even more popular and a must-have to stock up on.

5. NONGSHIM AnSungTangMyun

NONGSHIM AnSungTangMyun is a beloved classic that helped elevate Nongshim to its golden era. It has a dedicated fanbase, with many preferring it over Shin Ramen. Known for its mild, comforting flavor, this best-seller features a rich broth with subtle hints of soybean paste and beef, creating a deep umami base. While not overly spicy, it has a gentle warmth and a savory depth that’s perfectly balanced. The chewy noodles absorb the flavorful broth, offering a satisfying, cozy meal that’s ideal for any time you crave something soothing yet delicious.

6. NONGSHIM Neoguri

NONGSHIM Neoguri Ramen is a fan favorite that brings the best of both worlds—thick, chewy noodles and a rich, seafood-packed broth. It’s like the perfect crossover between udon and ramen, with a savory, umami flavor boosted by kelp and cute raccoon-shaped fish cakes. The natural aromas make every slurp a delight. The Kaguri flavor is often hailed as a top choice, but don’t forget about its legendary pairing with Chapagetti—they’re like ramen soulmates. Feeling adventurous? Try stir-frying Neoguri with some seafood or mixed veggies for an extra flavor-packed twist. It’s a noodle experience that never disappoints!

7. PALDO Teumsae Ramen

PALDO Teumsae Ramen is the go-to for spice lovers who crave a challenge. Known for its fiery heat and bold flavors, it’s perfect for those who enjoy pushing their spice limits. PALDO offers four intense varieties: Bbalgyetteok (spicy rice cake), Spicy Kimchi, Meat Jjamppong, and Spicy Curry, all of which pack a serious punch. Bbalgyetteok is especially popular among those who enjoy intense spiciness. Its strong, addictive spiciness is complemented by a deep umami flavor, making it a spicy ramen that keeps you coming back for more. If you’re looking for a bold, fiery noodle experience, Teumsae Ramen is your perfect match.

8. SAMYANG Samyang Ramen

Samyang Ramen holds the title of the first Korean instant noodle, introduced in 1963 to help combat food shortages after the Korean War. Designed as an easy, accessible meal, it quickly became a household staple. Its savory beef-based broth, with hints of budae jjigae and ham, offers a clean, comforting taste that’s flavorful without being overly spicy. While simple and mild, its classic umami depth makes it perfect for customization. A timeless ramen that proves sometimes, simplicity is what makes a bowl truly satisfying.

9. PALDO Bibimmen

PALDO Bibimmen pioneered the cold bibim noodle trend in Korea. Unlike traditional instant noodles, it’s served cold, requiring a quick rinse under icy water—but the result is a refreshing, flavorful dish that’s worth the extra step. Its signature sweet and tangy apple-based sauce adds just the right amount of spice, making it a go-to for those who prefer bold flavors without overwhelming heat. The chewy, bouncy noodles pair perfectly with toppings like cucumber, boiled egg, or sesame seeds. A summertime favorite and a must-try for anyone who loves a refreshing, zesty noodle dish!

10. OTTOGI Snack Ramen

OTTOGI Snack Ramen is a light, flavorful, and quick-cooking ramen that’s perfect for a simple yet satisfying meal. Though it may not top sales charts, it has a loyal fan base, even claiming first place in an online poll. It was even chosen on a TV show as the best ramen for mixing with rice. Known for its clean, light broth, subtle savory seaweed flavor, and mild seasoning, it’s a favorite for those who prefer a gentler taste with less spice. With no overwhelming spice, it’s the perfect beginner-friendly ramen for those who can’t handle heat.

Top 5 Best Korean Cup Noodles

Now, it's time to introduce the top 5 Korean cup ramen that come highly recommended. While a few of these make it to the top 10 ramen list overall, they've been grouped to highlight a more diverse selection of Korean ramen. These cup noodles offer a range of unique flavors and experiences, ensuring there's something for every taste.

1. NONGSHIM Yukgaejang Ramen

NONGSHIM Yukgaejang Ramen is a national favorite and a bestseller in convenience stores across Korea. If you ask someone what Korean cup noodle to eat, and they don’t say "Yukgaejang Sabalmyeon," you might want to rethink that friendship (chuckle). Known for its savory beef flavor and just the right amount of spice, this ramen offers a rich, comforting broth with a satisfying kick. The thin, chewy noodles perfectly absorb the flavors, making every bite a savory delight.

2. PALDO Wang Ttukkeong

PALDO Wang Ttukkeong a standout cup ramen featuring a unique wide bowl and lid, differentiating it from traditional cup noodles. This beef-based ramen boasts a flavorful, mildly spicy broth that’s both rich and satisfying. With a larger serving size, the chewy noodles, crafted with tangzhong dough, beautifully absorb the broth’s depth. Wang Ttukkeong delivers a versatile, comforting flavor that pairs effortlessly with other dishes, offering a hearty and enjoyable meal every time.

3. OTTOGI Sesame Ramen

Ottogi Sesame Ramen Cup Noodle provides a delicious and balanced bowl of comfort, featuring a unique blend of rich sesame and nutty sesame oil flavors. The broth is savory and light, with a subtle, slightly spicy kick that adds complexity without overwhelming the palate. The smooth, chewy noodles absorb the flavorful broth, creating a satisfying and comforting experience in every bite. What sets this ramen apart is its delicate umami taste, perfectly complemented by egg bits that add a special touch to each spoonful. It’s a cup noodle that sesame enthusiasts will love, yet it's also an ideal choice for those who are new to ramen.

4. NONGSHIM Kimchi Sabalmyeon

NONGSHIM Kimchi Sabalmyeon captures the authentic flavor of kimchi jjigae, making it a top choice alongside Yukgaejang Sabalmyeon. This cup ramen features a rich, savory broth with the bold, tangy taste of kimchi and chewy noodles that soak up all the flavor. A best-seller among kimchi lovers, it's perfect for those who enjoy a spicy, sour kick and often pairs well with fresh kimchi for extra flavor. Kimchi Sabalmyeon offers a true taste of Korean comfort in every bite.

5. YOUUS Omori Kimchi Jjigae Ramen

Omori Kimchi Jjigae Ramen, launched by GS25 (YouUs), is a standout in the kimchi ramen world. It captures the bold, spicy flavor of aged kimchi jjigae, with a sharp, tangy taste that kimchi lovers crave. While NONGSHIM Yukgaejang Ramen consistently leads sales across convenience brands like 7-Eleven and CU, Omori Kimchi Jjigae Ramen has surpassed it in GS25, making it a top contender in the Korean cup noodle market.

As we wrap up our list of the best Korean ramen, it’s clear that these flavorful bowls go beyond just a quick meal—they’re a true part of Korean food culture. Whether you love spicy, bold flavors or savory, umami-rich broths, there’s something for everyone. With the added convenience of cup noodles, you can enjoy a taste of Korea anytime, anywhere.

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