After dust settles, Nongshim brings black noodles back

Instant noodle and snack maker Nongshim said yesterday it will resume sales of Shin Ramyun Black, which were halted last year due to a controversy over false advertising and an unpopular price hike, the product’s first in 14 months.

Nongshim said it will start distributing Shin Ramyun Black again in Korea from tomorrow at 1,500 won ($1.36).

Nongshim said it has improved the product’s quality by reducing the sodium content and enhancing the taste of the beef leg bone broth.

The brand was launched in April last year to mark the 25th anniversary of Shin Ramyun. Its 1,600 won price tag caused an uproar when it was released, and the Fair Trade Commission responded by imposing a 155 million won fine on Nongshim for exaggerating the product’s quality.

Nongshim said it will also strengthen its overseas marketing campaigns by airing TV commercials of Shin Ramyun Black cup noodles using Psy in North and South America from next month.