Korea’s first instant ramen launched on September 15, 1963

According to Samyang Foods, Samyang Ramen became Korea’s first instant ramen on September 15, 1963. Founder Jeon Jung-yoon brought in machinery and expertise from Japan’s Myojo Foods to help provide an affordable response to food shortages.

IT BEGAN AS A MEAL

The aim was a practical, inexpensive meal. In the early 1960s, food shortages made affordable alternatives to rice and other grains especially important.

BEFORE K-RAMEN WENT GLOBAL

Long before Korean instant noodles reached a worldwide audience, the story began with Samyang Ramen’s 1963 launch.

Sources & context

2026-09-18

samyangfoods.com ↗