Tasting K Bag Noodles: 9 Mouthwatering Options Reviewed

The annual consumption is 1.5 times that of Japan! South Korea, the instant ramen powerhouse

The Korean boom began in the early 2000s with the “Winter Sonata” series. Currently, it is said to be entering its fourth or fifth boom. While the drama, music, and other cultural elements are leading the way, the noodle culture that is representative of the country is also beginning to permeate the market. One of these is the bag-type instant noodles, or K-bag noodles.

South Korea is a well-known instant noodle powerhouse, consuming 76.2 servings per person per year (compared to 48.2 servings per person per year in Japan). The most representative instant noodle is spicy ramen, which is also well-known in Japan, but recently a number of unique bagged noodles have landed on the market. These are available at Don Quijote, Cardi, and even at 100-yen stores such as Daiso. Let us introduce you to the world of “K bagged noodles,” where you can enjoy a wide variety of flavors.

Potato kneaded noodles dance in your mouth!　Kamja Noodles (Sanyang Foods) ) / Actual price: 204 yen (researched by editor)

While wheat for ramen and udon noodles, buckwheat noodles, and rice for beehoon and pho are the most common ingredients for noodles, many Asian noodles are made from starch from beans and potatoes.

The chewy texture of the noodles, which contain more than 50% potato ingredients, is truly impressive at first bite. However, as one proceeds to eat, one is surprised by the change in flavor of the noodles. The starchiness of the potato slowly dissolves and the surface of the noodle becomes smooth. The noodles become smooth and silky, and the sensuality of the noodles is unmistakable. The soup is peppery and spicy. The soup is peppery and spicy, and has the spirit of Korean cuisine.

The spicy miso broth is sure to whet your appetite! Anseong Yumen (Nongshim) / Market price: 177 yen (as investigated by the editorial department).

Spicy ramen is one of the most popular Korean bagged noodles. It has many fans as a spicy noodle, but many people may be put off by the red chili pepper soup. For beginners, we recommend Anseong Yumen. This is the standard Korean ramen from Nongshin Foods, the same company that produces spicy ramen.

In Korea, there is a seasoning called “Tenjang” made from fermented soybeans like miso, and there are many miso-based noodle dishes. This “Anseong Yumen” is a beef-based soup with Korean miso and chili peppers. The mild miso flavor is accompanied by a moderate spiciness.