Lima: Nongshim Co., South Korea's leading instant noodle maker, announced the opening of its first overseas "experience space" for its instant noodle, or ramyeon, products in Peru. The new venue, named "Shin Ramyun Bunsik," was launched near Machu Picchu on April 21, aiming to attract global consumers visiting the iconic site.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the company expressed hopes for "Shin Ramyun Bunsik" to become a new hotspot for enjoying global landmarks, similar to the popularity of Shin Ramyun in locations like Jungfrau in Europe and Punta Arenas near Antarctica. However, the company clarified it does not operate dedicated spaces in those locations.
The "Shin Ramyun Bunsik" facility is situated in Aguas Calientes, the gateway town to Machu Picchu. It features a hands-on cooking and tasting area on the first floor and exhibition spaces on the upper floors showcasing the history of Shin Ramyun and Nongshim's product lineup. The company plans to open a second Shin Ramyun Bunsik, also referred to as a K-style noodle bar, in Asia within the first half of this year and is considering further expansions at major global landmarks.
Nongshim's net profit for all of 2024 fell 8.1 percent year-on-year to 157.63 billion won (US$109 million), partly due to higher costs. The company earns about 45 percent of its overall ramyeon sales in global markets. Nongshim operates six domestic plants and six overseas facilities, including two in the United States and four in China, and sells instant noodle products globally, including its flagship Shin Ramyun, as well as Chapagetti and Neoguri.