'Ramyeon Library’ makes noise in Hongdae with 225 noodle varieties

CU's ramyeon-themed convenience store branch open in Hongdae, western Seoul, on Monday [CU]

Convenience store chain CU opened a ramyeon-themed branch in Hongdae, western Seoul, on Monday.

Embracing the unique concept of a 'Ramyeon Library,' the store boasts a collection of 225 ramyeon varieties, encompassing both popular bag and cup options from home and abroad. This includes Shin Ramyun, Jin Ramen, Buldak Ramen from Korea, as well as Japanese Shoyu Ramen, Vietnamese Bun and Indonesian Mie Goreng.

Customers can also enjoy the unique experience of preparing and tasting ramyeon on-site with three instant ramyeon cookers and standing counters.

Going beyond ramyeon, CU has dedicated a corner to present a selection of 150 alcoholic beverages, including traditional Korean liquor, wine and whiskey.

"We anticipate the store's potential to introduce a distinctive Korean convenience store culture, especially to foreign visitors, as they can see and purchase ramyeon and alcoholic beverages that lead the K-Food trends," a CU official said.

The recent sales data reinforces this strategy, with ramyeon experiencing a year-over-year growth rate of 8.6 percent in 2021, 25.6 percent in 2022, and 21.1 percent in 2023 from January through November — attributed to the "widespread adoption of thrifty consumer habits, a stream of new product releases, and the wave of 'ramyeon challenges'," according to CU.

BY SEO JI-EUN [seo.jieun1@joongang.co.kr]