South Korea Unveils Ramen Experiences for Tourists at Airports

UPDATE: South Korea’s ramen manufacturers are transforming the culinary tourism landscape with hands-on experiences aimed at foreign visitors. This initiative is intensifying as global interest in Korean cuisine skyrockets.

Just announced, Nongshim has opened a new “Ramen Museum” in Seogwipo on Jeju Island, a hotspot for both domestic and international travelers. The venue spans approximately 330 square meters on the second floor of Shinhwa Plaza, strategically located near Seogwipo Gangjeong Port, a major cruise tourist entry point.

The Ramen Museum offers a unique cooking area where guests can select, prepare, and savor famous ramen varieties such as Shin Ramyun, Anseong Tangmyeon, Jjapagetti, and Neoguri. Visitors will use instant cookers, mimicking the popular “Han River ramen” experience beloved by tourists. Limited-time menus featuring local Jeju ingredients are also planned.

The venue is not just about cooking; it includes vibrant photo zones featuring oversized Neoguri characters and Jeju-themed decor like dolhareubang stone statues and tangerine trees. A dedicated section showcases the 40-year legacy of Shin Ramyun and its global expansion, attracting fans of all ages.

Meanwhile, Ottogi is enhancing its ramen visibility through international airport lounges. They have introduced a “Ramen Library” in Korean Air’s renovated Prestige Lounge located in Incheon International Airport, Terminal 2. This space allows travelers to prepare bagged noodles, moving beyond the traditional cup-noodle setup. Ottogi offers 14 varieties of ramen, with facilities for guests to cook them on-site.

A food industry expert stated that ramen is increasingly recognized as a tourism attraction. Experience-based marketing is anticipated to expand further in high-traffic areas like airports, tourist sites, and shopping malls, making it more accessible for international visitors.

With these developments, South Korea is not only promoting its culinary heritage but also enhancing the tourist experience, ensuring visitors leave with lasting memories of their ramen adventures.