Nongshim’s flagship instant noodle brand Shin Ramyun is gaining traction in France beyond its traditional base of Asian expatriate consumers, signaling a broader acceptance of Korean food products among European shoppers.
In France, Shin Ramyun has emerged as one of the most widely recognized Korean instant noodles, increasingly consumed not as a niche ethnic product but as an everyday grocery item. According to Carrefour, one of the country’s largest supermarket chains, Shin Ramyun is among the most popular Korean ramen products not only for Korean customers but also across Asian communities, and is now reaching a broader local consumer base.
Unlike many spicier or novelty-driven Korean instant noodles entering the market, Shin Ramyun is often described by consumers as a “standard” flavor, valued for its balanced broth and moderate heat. Industry observers say this consistency has translated into repeat purchases, mirroring the brand’s long-established position in Asian markets and suggesting that its appeal is transferring effectively to European tastes.
The brand’s growing visibility has been amplified by social media. Le Monde de Choi, a Korean-French food content creator, described Shin Ramyun as “the number one ramen chosen by Asians regardless of nationality,” a characterization that has resonated with online audiences and contributed to word-of-mouth momentum.
Analysts note that this organic exposure has been reinforced by Nongshim’s aggressive expansion into mainstream European retail. In 2024, the company broadened distribution through major French retailers including Carrefour and E.Leclerc, moving Shin Ramyun out of specialty Asian stores and into everyday shopping routes for local consumers. That shift has helped reframe the product from an exotic import to a convenient meal option.
The impact is visible in the numbers. Shin Ramyun generated 1.34 trillion won ($930 million) in sales in 2024, up 56% from 2020. Overseas revenue has been a key driver of that growth. International sales rose from 420 billion won in 2020 to 820 billion won in 2024, accounting for 61% of total Shin Ramyun revenue. Market estimates suggest overseas sales may have approached 1 trillion won last year.
In Europe, Shin Ramyun is increasingly positioned as a premium instant noodle, contributing disproportionately to Nongshim’s regional performance. The company has identified the product as a central pillar of its global strategy and has invested in experiential marketing, including a Shin Ramyun-themed pop-up store at Carrefour locations during the Paris Olympics last year.
Nongshim plans to continue expanding Shin Ramyun sales through major European retailers such as Tesco in the U.K., Rewe in Germany and Albert Heijn in the Netherlands, while also developing products tailored to local preferences. The company aims to generate $300 million in European revenue by 2030, betting that Korean food’s crossover appeal will extend well beyond its early adopters.
