South Korea is the world's largest per-capita consumer of instant noodles, averaging over 70 servings per person per year. Korean instant noodles — called ramyeon (라면) — are a cultural institution, appearing in film, TV, convenience stores, and every household.
Korean ramyeon is distinguished by its aggressive flavouring: high heat (gochugaru chili), bold garlic, and thick, chewy, bouncy noodles. The noodles are typically thicker and chewier than Japanese equivalents, with a pronounced 'Q' texture (쫄깃한 식감).
Major brands: Nongshim (Shin Ramyun, the global bestseller), Samyang (Buldak series), Ottogi (Jin Ramen, Cheese Ramen), and Paldo (Teumsae). The Korean instant noodle industry pioneered the 'fire noodle' category (extremely spicy stir-fried noodles) which became a worldwide social-media phenomenon.