Discover Seoul’s Hidden Gem: The CU Hongdae Sangsang Branch’s Ramyun Library

Hongdae, known for being the center of Seoul’s trendiest scenes, is home to an exceptional convenience store that has become a must-visit for both locals and tourists. This CU Hongdae Sangsang Branch is a unique convenience store where you can pick and prepare your own noodles at the Ramyun Library!

One of the most striking features of the CU Hongdae Sangsang Branch is its “Ramyun Library.” This impressive display covers an entire wall with a vast collection of instant noodles available in Korea. The library’s 100 compartments are filled with nearly 105 different instant noodle varieties, far exceeding the typical selection of about 30 found in most convenience stores.

From the beloved Buldak Ramen to the classic Shin Ramyun, the Ramyun Library includes 90 renowned Korean brands. For those unfamiliar with Korean noodles, the library offers multilingual labels (in English, Japanese, and Chinese) detailing the price, characteristics, and spice level of each product. For example, the popular Shin Ramyun is labeled “VERY HOT” (level 4), while even noodles marked “MILD” (level 1) might still contain some spices, such as pepper.

The themed tables shaped like cup noodles provide a quirky photo opportunity to commemorate your visit to this ramen haven.

New to K-Ramyeon? Start with Our Top 3 Picks!

If you’re new to cooking instant noodles or find the instructions hard to decipher, the Ramyun Library has you covered. Simply choose your ramyeon, pay for it along with a paper vessel (900 won), and follow the user-friendly steps to cook your meal using the ramyeon cooker. Instructions and recommended recipes are conveniently displayed next to the cooker, ensuring a foolproof cooking experience.

How to Use the Instant Noodle Cooker

1. Open the ramyeon package and place the noodles and seasoning into the paper vessel.
2. Scan the package barcode using the barcode reader.
3. Place the paper vessel on the cooking surface.
4. Press the “Start Cooking” button.
5. Once the noodles are done, remove the vessel.
6. Enjoy your freshly cooked noodles!

For those feeling overwhelmed by the extensive selection, here are three highly recommended choices:

BEST 1. Budaejjigae Noodle Soup

• Introduction: Premium ramyeon inspired by sausage jjigae (budaejjigae)
• Spice Level: ★★★☆☆ (HOT)
• Price: 1,600 won
• Flavor: This noodle is celebrated for its rich ox bone-based broth and a variety of ingredients including sausage, fishcake, kimchi, green onions, and rice cake, offering a mix of textures reminiscent of freshly prepared sausage jjigae.
• Recommended Topping: A slice of cheese to mellow the heat.

BEST 2. Ansungtangmyun Mild

• Introduction: A mild ramyeon with a deep, elegant chicken-based soup
• Spice Level: ★☆☆☆☆ (MILD)
• Price: 900 won
• Flavor: This mild version of the classic Ansungtangmyun features a beef-and-chicken-based broth flavored with soybean paste, providing a rich and savory taste without the spiciness.
• Recommended Topping: Add juicy and tender mandu to enhance your meal.

BEST 3. Sesame Ramen

• Introduction: A rich and spicy soup enhanced with sesame, eggs, and sesame oil
• Spice Level: ★★★☆☆ (HOT)
• Price: 1,350 won
• Flavor: Includes an egg block and chili oil packet, creating a taste reminiscent of spicy egg drop soup with a hint of sesame oil. For those sensitive to spice, start with half the chili oil packet. For a richer texture, crack an egg into the soup.
• Recommended Topping: Crack an egg to soften the heat and add richness.

Feeling tempted? Make your way to Hongdae, Seoul’s hub for the young and hip, and craft the ultimate instant noodle dish at the CU Hongdae Sangsang Branch.

CU Hongdae Sangsang Branch

• Address: 25 Jandari-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 마포구 잔다리로 25)
• Operating Hours: Open 24 hours
• Inquiries: +82-507-1324-2463
• Instagram: @cu_official

Experience the vibrant world of Korean instant noodles and create unforgettable memories at this unique convenience store.