From 1963 to Viral: The Best of Samyang
Samyang invented Korea’s instant ramyun and later went viral with Buldak. The best of its lineup, ranked.
Quick answer: Yes — Samyang makes some of the most popular Korean noodles. Best Samyang picks: Buldak (Hot Chicken) for fiery stir-fried heat, Carbonara Buldak for a creamy entry, and the original Samyang Ramen — Korea’s first instant ramyun (1963) — for classic comfort. Buldak is the global standout.
Samyang has two claims to fame: it started Korean instant ramyun in 1963, and it conquered the internet with Buldak. The best of both, ranked.
The picks
- Buldak / Hot Chicken (Samyang) — the viral, fiery stir-fried noodle that made Samyang a global name.
- Carbonara Buldak — creamy and approachable; the best entry into the Buldak family.
- Samyang Ramen (original) — Korea’s first instant ramyun, launched in 1963; a comforting, classic soup.
- Cheese Buldak — original heat softened by rich cheese powder.
At a glance
| Pick | Style | Heat | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Buldak | Stir-fried | Very hot | The viral one |
| Carbonara Buldak | Stir-fried | Low-medium | Creamy, easy |
| Samyang Ramen | Soup | Medium | The 1963 original |
| Cheese Buldak | Stir-fried | Medium | Rich, mellow |
Bottom line
Samyang is excellent. For the iconic experience, try Buldak; if heat isn’t your thing, Carbonara Buldak or the classic Samyang Ramen soup.
FAQ
Is Samyang ramen good?
Yes. Samyang makes some of the world’s most popular Korean noodles, led by the viral Buldak (Hot Chicken) line. It also produced Korea’s first instant ramyun in 1963.
What is the best Samyang noodle?
Buldak (Hot Chicken) is the standout for heat lovers, Carbonara Buldak is the best mild entry point, and the original Samyang Ramen is the classic comforting soup.
Sources
Image: “Samyang Ramen” by Mobius6, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons.
← Back to all posts