Samyang Ramen: Spicy Noodles That Are Straight Fire 🔥
Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you’ve probably come across videos or stories surrounding a very particular type of spicy noodles from South Korea.
While not everyone can stand the heat of chili peppers, many enjoy the rush and are obsessed with trying as many hot foods as possible. I think that’s why this Samyang ramen caught on so quickly and has remained a popular choice for many, even years after it went viral. So, what’s with all the hype surrounding Korean fire noodles?
To deliver the answer, my buddy and I created this site to give you ALL the information you need to know.
We’ve lived in South Korea for years and have been able to closely monitor the situation. It’s always fun for us to visit a convenience store like CU or GS25 in Seoul and see a new flavor because that means we get to come back here and work on typing up some updates you. So without any further delay, let’s get started.
Click here to skip down to find the best noodles to buy online.
What are Korean Fire Noodles?
Korean fire noodles are an internet-famous dish created by the Samyang Foods company in South Korea.
Established in 1961, Samyang Foods, Inc. produced Korea’s first ramen in 1963. The 60s saw food shortages in Korea, so the company sought to create something to overcome them. Decades later, ramen is the second most popular food staple for the country. I’m assuming kimchi is considered the first.
The actual product name of the original Korean spicy ramen used in many of the internet videos is Buldak Bokkeum Myun, which translates roughly to “hot chicken stir-fried noodles.”
Although Samyang produces a variety of ramen flavors, the internet grabbed hold of this particular hot spicy noodle flavor, making it the brand’s leading K-Food (their word, not mine). Now they export their noodles and snacks across the globe to hungry fans and curious netizens just like you.
The company has capitalized on the demand for their spicy noodles by creating more flavors under the hot chicken family. You can now try Samyang ramen versions like Cheese, Curry, and the spiciest — 2x Nuclear. Let’s take a detailed look at each of them now.
Best Korean Fire Noodles to Buy Now to Try Now
Buldak Bokkeum Myun (Original Flavor)
🔥🔥🔥🔥 If you want to stay true to Samyang and their hot chicken stir-fried noodles, you can’t go wrong with the original flavor. This is the exact version used in the first spicy noodle challenge video and sets the bar. If you’re new to trying Samyang ramen, start with this one and see how you feel afterwards! If you still aren’t suffering, you’ll want to move on down to our next choice.
Buldak Bokkeum Myun (2X Nuclear Flavor)
🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 If the original variety had you passing the fire noodle challenge with flying colors, it’s time to turn up the heat — literally! Samyang released these spicy nuclear noodles, which doubles the heat. Eaters, beware! Have napkins handy for both your mouth and the sweat pouring from your forehead after eating this spicy Korean ramen. 🥵
Buldak Bokkeum Myun (Jjajang Flavor)
🔥🔥🔥🔥 This Samyang ramen flavor is one of the more recent additions to the lineup. Jjajang is a popular black bean sauce in Asia. It’s often eaten by Koreans, so it was a smart choice for them to create for the hot chicken stir-fried noodles. Don’t write off this flavor until you’ve tried it. It might sound odd, but I think you’ll enjoy it.
Buldak Bokkeum Myun (Cheese Flavor)
🔥🔥🔥 Forgive me for this next ramen…I know it’s a bit cheesy 🧀. If you’re a fan of cheese and spicy noodles, then this milder (in our opinion) version of Samyang will be a match made in heaven. Mixing cheese with spicy dishes is common in Korea, so it’s no surprise they opted to release this version. My mouth is already watering just writing this. 🤤
Buldak Bokkeum Myun (Carbonara Flavor)
🔥🔥 Carbonara is a BIG deal in Korea. From pasta to rice cakes, it’s a popular sauce. Samyang decided it’d be a good idea to match the creamy goodness with their spicy hot chicken stir-fried noodles for another popular option for dedicated fire noodle fans! Let us know what you think of this one!
Buldak Bokkeum Myun (Curry Flavor)
🔥🔥🔥 First off, curry here refers to the Japanese/Korean version of the thick, stew-type curry — reminiscent of Indian curries. If you’re feeling adventurous and have tried the original variety, give this one a try. It’s not quite as spicy, but it’s still a good idea to have a glass of milk handy. Cheers! 🥛
Buldak Bokkeum Myun (Kimchi Flavor)
🔥🔥🔥 If you’re familiar with Koreans, you know all about their passion for kimchi. It was only a matter of time before Samyang released another Korean fire noodle version with kimchi. It’s naturally and artificially flavored, but delivers on both the spice and flavor front. Order some today for a quick and easy meal.
Buldak Bokkeum Myun (Corn Flavor)
🔥🔥🔥 While corn may seem like a random option, it frequently finds its way into the mouths of hungry Koreans, so why not add it as a flavor? With that being said, the reviews are pretty mixed on this particular Buldak option. You’ll never know if you love it or hate with out trying, so add a few to your next online shopping order.
Buldak Bokkeum Myun (Tomato Pasta Flavor)
🔥🔥🔥🔥 The Tomato Pasta flavor of Korean Fire Noodles is a more recent addition to Samyang’s lineup. If you grew up eating Chef Boyardee or Spaghettio’s, you’ll love the flavor. While we found it nostalgic and delicious, don’t expect gourmet true italian flavors. On a spice level, the tomato pasta hot chicken ramen packs quite a punch.
Buldak Bokkeum Myun (Habanero Lime Flavor)
🔥🔥🔥🔥 Chili peppers and lime are a common culinary combination, so it’s no surprise that Samyang decided to add this flavor to the mix. It is quite a welcome change from the original flavor with lime and cilantro flavorings. Of course, it’s also plenty spicy for those that dare try it.
Buldak Bokkeum Myun (Stew Type)
🔥🔥🔥🔥 Korean cuisine has TONS of great stews and soups, so we were excited to try this stew type Korean Fire Noodles from Samyang as soon as it hit shelves. Enjoy the spice and flavor of the original noodles, now in a delicious broth!
Samyang Hot Sauces – The Ultimate Korean Spicy Sauces
Buldak Bokkeum Myun Combo Pack Hot Sauce
🔥🔥🔥🔥 Samyang graciously packed all three of their popular sauces for those that want to taste test or keep their cupboards stocked. In this set, you get the original sauce, 2x nuclear, and carbo versions. Order today if you want to always have something spicy to add to your snack or meal.
Buldak Bokkeum Myun Original Hot Sauce
🔥🔥🔥🔥 There’s no better way to kick your snacks or meals up a heat notch than smothering it in Samyang’s Buldak Hot Sauce. If you enjoy the flavor of the noodles as much as we do, you might just want to put in on anything and everything you eat. What’s the weirdest thing you want to try it on? 🤔 We don’t judge.
Buldak Bokkeum Myun 2X Spicy Hot Sauce
🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 Does the original hot sauce flavor not do it for you? Have no fear because Samyang also sells their famous Buldak hot sauce for the 2X Nuclear noodles. One dab for the adventurous will send you into heat-induced euphoria. Can you handle this Korean spicy sauce? 🌶
Buldak Bokkeum Myun Carbo Hot Sauce
🔥🔥🔥 Carbonara Korean fire noodle lovers rejoice! You can now grab this popular flavor’s hot sauce to pour on whatever you want. Craving Carbo Buldak hot sauce on a carbonara pasta dish? What are you waiting for? Chef it up and let us know how it tastes!
Frequently Asked Questions About Korean Fire Noodles
How many Scoville Units are Korean Fire Noodles?
Depending on which version of the product you are eating, the Buldak ramen Scoville units may vary. The bowl package is 3,210 Scoville units, while the stovetop package is 4,404 Scoville units. If you are brave enough to try the 2X Spicy version, you’re downing an incredible 8,706 SHU.
This makes Korean fire noodles about as spicy as your average jalapeño pepper. If you read the packaging of the noodles once you get them, you’ll find that some have the Scoville Heat Units listed on the back or side. If you’re a fan of jalapeño peppers and can handle the heat, it might surprise you that this seems a little hotter. We like to think it’s because the dish is served hot (temperature wise).
How to make Buldak ramen less spicy?
If you are curious how to make Samyang noodles less spicy, there a couple of popular tactics eaters use. Try using a half or quarter of the sauce packet or add other ingredients (cheese, egg, tofu, milk, cream, etc.) to dilute the spiciness while still maintaining the full delicious flavor.
Where can I buy Korean Fire Noodles?
There are three main places to purchase Samyang ramen and the varieties of Korean fire noodles: online, at a local foreign foods market, or in Korea. Unless you live in Korea, shopping online is the easiest and most convenient way to buy them. Click here, and you’ll find a handy list of many popular products with buttons to buy them from Amazon. There are plenty of options for package counts, so get as few or many as you please. You can also try this site (use code: KOREANFIRENOODLES for 5% savings) which has many Korean snacks, beauty products, and K-pop goods.
What is in Korean Fire Noodles?
The main ingredients in Korean fire noodles or Buldak Bokkeum Myun Original include wheat-based noodles, soy sauce, artificial chicken flavor, sugar, red pepper powder (gochugaru), black pepper powder, soybean oil, onion, curry powder, red pepper seed oil, garlic, roast sesame, and dried laver.
Are there Buldak ramen vegan options?
Unfortunately, at this time, it doesn’t look like there are any Buldak ramen vegan options. The Samyang 2X Nuclear noodles used to be vegan-friendly, but now list egg in the ingredients list. If you are craving Korean ramyeon and are vegan, you can check out Nongshim Shin Ramen Vegan noodles.
Where can I buy Samyang Ramen in Korea?
If you are in Korea and searching for Korean fire noodles, you’ll find it is incredibly easy. There are options just about everywhere you go. The key places to look if you are in the country are convenience stores like GS25, CU, Mini Stop, or 7-Eleven.
If you walk into any of these marts, you’ll find just about every single variation of Buldak ram, both in the cook-at-home and bowl packaging. The best part about grabbing a bowl package of noodles at one of these marts is that you can prepare it right inside and chow down. Nearly every mart has a hot water tank available for you to use to cook the noodles and a spot to sit or stand in the mart for eating quickly.
This is a popular option for many students or those looking to have a quick snack. Other places to search in Korea are supermarkets. While you’re at the supermarket, you can find bulk packages of the noodles if you enjoy eating the spicy dishes at home or want to take them as souvenirs (check Customs laws of course).
Where to find Samyang Ramen near me?
If you live outside of Korea and are searching for where to buy Korean fire noodles, you will probably find that your local Asian food market might carry some varieties. As mentioned at the top of the page, Samyang is exporting their ramen and snacks all over the globe.
Noodles at your local Asian food market may be overpriced and they may carry limited quantities, but you might just get lucky. Doing a quick search online for local Asian food markets in your area should give you a better idea of what’s around you. The search results should include phone numbers, so if the marts aren’t within walking distance or a quick drive, it’s a good idea to call ahead and see what’s available.
Cities like Los Angeles and New York City have Korea-towns that are almost certain to have shops that will carry what you’re looking for. Since there will most likely be multiple places that carry Samyang, shop around to make sure you’re getting the best deal.
Where to buy Korean Fire Noodles online?
Online marketplaces like Amazon and Daebak (use code: KOREANFIRENOODLES for 5% savings) are the quickest and easiest places to check when you’re looking to buy Samyang ramen. Since these spicy noodles have become a trend all over the world, companies have done a great job of making them available for purchase over the internet too.
In fact, we’ve made it really easy for you to find Korean fire noodles from this page. You can click here to jump back up to the list of varieties above, clicking the images or buttons will take you to shop online. It doesn’t get much easier than that!
What are other Korean ramen brands with spicy noodles?
Samyang isn’t the only company that’s popular in Korea. There are several others that put out some great flavors you may have tried or seen on YouTube. While some aren’t hyped as much around the globe, you’ll still find them delicious and even available online. Korean spicy noodles from brands like Nongshim, Ottogi, and Paldo are a great place to start looking.
What is the Korean Fire Noodle Challenge?
The Korean Fire Noodle challenge is to finish an entire package of Korean Fire Noodles in one sitting. To spice up the challenge (pun intended ㅋㅋ), you can set a time limit for you and your friends or restrict the usage of cool beverages until the challenge has been completed.
While the Korean fire noodle challenge idea is simple, completing it is not so easy. Even looking at the prepared dish gives you a clue as to what awaits you. The fiery red-orange color of the sauce matches the fire about to ignite inside your mouth.
It should go without saying that recording your challenge to create a video is a great idea. There are hundreds upon hundreds YouTube video results for “Korean fire noodle challenge” with more being uploaded all the time.