Nongshim vs. Nissin vs. Maruchan vs. Samyang: Who Wins the Battle between Korean and Japanese Ramen?

What are the best instant noodle brands in Korea?

There are many well-known instant noodle brands in Korea, of which Samyang and Nongshim are the two most famous brands. They are not only popular in Asia, but also have a large number of fans in America and Europe. And Ottogi and Paldo are also among the "four major" instant noodle brands in Korea.

What are the best instant noodle brands in Japan?

The best-known and most respected instant noodle brands in Japan include Nissin and Maruchan. In 1958, Nissin Foods founder Momofuku Ando invented the world's first instant noodle: Chicken Ramen. Nissin is a pioneer in the instant noodle industry and is best known for its products such as Cup Noodles.

What are the differences between Korean ramen and Japanese ramen?

Although both Japanese and Korean instant noodles have a large number of fans around the world, I think there are several differences between them:

1. Ramen flavor:

   Japanese instant noodles are usually lighter and more diverse, focusing on showing the original flavor of the ingredients, such as seafood flavor, pork bone flavor, etc.

   Korean instant noodles are heavier, mainly spicy and rich flavors, such as spicy cabbage flavor, spicy chicken flavor, spicy seafood flavor, etc.

2. Noodle texture:

   Japanese instant noodles are usually thinner and softer, with a smooth taste.

   Korean instant noodles are relatively thicker, more chewy and elastic.

3. Seasoning packets:
   

   The seasoning packet of Japanese instant noodles is relatively simple, focusing on the freshness and balance of the soup.

   The seasoning packet of Korean instant noodles is often richer, including more chili powder, dried vegetables, etc.

4. Side dishes:

   Japanese ramen tends to be paired with traditional Japanese side dishes, such as fish cakes and seaweed.

   Korean ramen is often paired with Korean-style ingredients such as kimchi and dehydrated vegetables.

5. Brand style:

   Japanese ramen brands focus on innovation and quality, and continue to launch new flavors and concepts.

   Korean ramen brands emphasize unique flavors and strong tastes, which can easily leave a deep impression on diners.

So, Which is the winner in the Japanese vs Korean instant noodles comparison?

Personally, I prefer Korean ramen because I like strong, rich and spicy flavors. 

Secondly, their noodles are usually chewier and richly seasoned, which suits people like me who like bold, stimulating flavors and chewy textures.

But if you can't handle spicy food, you may find Japanese instant noodles more delicious; Japanese ramen soups are often delicious and mellow, and the noodles are fine-textured, which suits people who like light, fresh flavors and delicate textures.

Nongshim vs. Nissin vs. Maruchan vs. Samyang: How are their ramen different?

Let me list the most popular Asian instant noodles brands to show you the characteristics and differences between Korean and Japanese instant noodles.

Editor's review: Nongshim vs. Nissin vs. Maruchan vs. Samyang: Which one is best?

My number one choice is Nongshim!

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The spiciness level of the original shin ramen is 3,400 SHU, so if you like spicy flavors, you will definitely eat a bowl quickly.

Although our favorite Korean famous spicy ramen - Samyang Buldak 3x is the spiciest, so much so that it has caused challenges from countless hot and spicy lovers, its spiciness level is 13,200 SHU, which is too spicy for daily meals.

And Shin Ramyun, also from South Korea, I bet is the spicy ramen most commonly enjoyed by my friends around me!

Although the numbers vary greatly, Shin Ramyun still tastes quite spicy to most people in the world, except Koreans and Chinese, so we rate it a 3 on the spiciness scale.

If you like bold and spicy flavors, try the signature beef flavor, which is not commonly found in ramen.

Shin ramyun has a bit of spice, but it is far from one of the spiciest ramyuns on this list. However, if you are very sensitive to spice or are not used to Korean ramyun, this can feel quite spicy. 

It comes in instantly recognizable red shiny packaging and claims it "can make a grown man cry".

Interestingly, the spiciness will clear your sinuses and any bad mood from a hard day at work, while the chewy noodles will perk you up.

The chewiness of the noodles and the richness of the spicy broth – packed with beef, mushrooms, carrots, and peppers – will make you crave another bowl instantly. 

We believe you will not be disappointed, after all, this is the spicy flavor that Koreans love, the representative ramen of Korea! Since its development in October 1986, Shin Ramen has been loved by people.

Real Reviews and Comparisons of the Best Asian Ramen

#1. Nongshim

#►. How about this brand:

Nongshim is a well-known food brand from South Korea, founded in 1965 and headquartered in Seoul, South Korea. The company mainly produces and sells a variety of instant noodles, snacks, beverages and other foods, which are loved by people for their unique taste and high quality.

Nongshim's ramen products are famous for their strong flavor and rich taste. Among them, one of the most popular products is Shin Ramen, which has a spicy taste and chewy noodles and is loved by people who like spicy food.

#►. What we like about it:

1. Various flavors: 

   I can have different choices because Nongshim offers a variety of flavors of instant noodles, such as classic Shin Ramyun, Spicy Cabbage Ramen, Anseong Soup Noodles, etc. Each flavor is suitable for lunch and dinner, and I even eat it as an exciting midnight snack.

2. Unique seasoning packet:

   What attracted me most was the Nongshim seasoning packet, which contains unique spices and seasonings, adding a rich flavor to the instant noodles.

   The ingredients in the seasoning packet include chili powder, pepper, soy sauce, MSG, salt, etc. Some Shin Ramyun noodles also add some special seasonings, such as mushroom powder, beef powder, etc., to increase the flavor.

   I have eaten Nongshim Ramen countless times, and every time I find it so delicious that I can't stop eating it. However, it is really spicy. If you can't eat spicy food, please prepare a pack of milk to relieve the spiciness.

3. High-quality noodles:

   The quality of Korean ramen is almost world-class, and Nongshim is no exception. Nongshim pays attention to the quality of noodles, which are usually chewy and smooth.

   So I usually put the noodles in boiling water and cook them for about 3-4 minutes, and the cooked Shin Ramyun will have a chewier texture.

   However, you can also use boiling water to soak the noodles. Put the noodles in a bowl, add an appropriate amount of boiling water, cover the lid, and wait for the noodles to fully absorb water and soften for about 4-5 minutes before eating. If you like a softer texture, you can extend the soaking time appropriately.

#►. What we don't like about it:

Nongshim instant noodles may have the following disadvantages:

1. Higher price: 

   Compared with other brands of instant noodles, Nongshim instant noodles are relatively expensive.

2. Single flavor: 

   Although Nongshim instant noodles have a variety of flavors to choose from, some people may think that its flavors are relatively single and lack innovation.

#►. These are the best or most popular ramen of Nongshim:

Some of the best and most popular ramen offerings from Nongshim include Shin Ramyun, Kimchi Ramyun, and Ansungtangmyun.

Shin Ramyun: 

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One of Nongshim's classic products, featuring spicy flavor and rich seasoning.

Kimchi Ramen: 

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Combines the traditional Korean kimchi flavor with a rich taste.

Ansungtangmyun Soup Noodles: 

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Ansungtangmyun is appreciated for its savory and comforting broth. The noodles are chewy, the soup is refreshing and not greasy, and it is rich and fragrant.

#2. Samyang 

#►. How about this brand:

Samyang instant noodles is a well-known Korean brand, founded in 1961, and is affiliated to the Samyang Group of South Korea.

The brand has a variety of instant noodles, among which Samyang Buldak noodles is the most famous. Samyang Buldak noodles are loved by people for their unique super spicy taste and have become one of the popular instant noodles.

Samyang instant noodles are sold in many countries and regions around the world, especially in Asia, such as China, South Korea, Japan, Southeast Asia, etc., and are deeply loved by consumers.

#►. What we like about it:

1. Unique taste: 

   Taking Samyang Buldak Chicken Ramen as an example, its taste is mainly sweet and spicy. After trying this sweet and spicy flavor, I finally understand why it has frequently appeared in Korean variety shows and bloggers' "foodie shows" in recent years, becoming a "net celebrity" product that young consumers pay attention to. The moment you put it in your mouth, you can feel a hint of sweetness, which is the classic Korean sweet and spicy sweetness, followed by spicy taste. The more you eat, the spicier it gets. Paired with delicious seaweed sesame crumbs, it is spicy but fragrant, and the more you eat, the more addictive it becomes.

2. Strong social attributes:

   Samyang instant noodles often become a hot topic in social activities due to its unique taste and brand image. People are willing to try it, challenge it, and share it.

3. High brand awareness:

   Samyang instant noodles are well-known around the world, especially in the Asian market. Samyang ramen is especially popular among people who like spicy flavors and are adventurous.

4. Unique packaging:

   The packaging is usually eye-catching and easily recognizable.

#►. What we don't like about it:

1. The spiciest taste:

   Samyang Ramen is mainly sweet and spicy, which may be too spicy for people who can't eat spicy food.

2. Not easy to cook:

   Samyang Ramen has a relatively thick noodle cake, which is more difficult to cook than the instant noodles on the market in East Asia and Southeast Asia and takes a longer time to cook.

3. Higher price:

   Compared with other brands of ramen, Samyang Ramen is more expensive.

#►. These are the best or most popular ramen of Samyang:

Samyang Ramen has various flavors, among which the more popular ones are:

SAMYANG Buldak Ramen Hot Chicken Flavor:

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This noodle is loved by diners for its unique sweet and spicy taste and chewy noodles.

I like the original Buldak Noodles in black packaging, which is also the star product of Samyang Foods. Its noodles are made with Korean technology, chewy and elastic, and paired with a hot sauce packet made of habanero peppers and Vietnamese peppers. The initial sweetness is immediately covered by the strong spicy taste, bringing an unprecedented taste bud stimulation and stress relief experience.

SAMYANG Korean Buldak Ramen Carbonara Hot Chicken Flavor:

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SAMYANG Korean Buldak Ramen Carbonara Hot Chicken Flavor in pink packaging are also loved by female consumers, including my sister and mother.

In terms of taste, it uses a special Italian dry cream powder packet concentrated by multiple processes and classic hot sauce. Every bite can taste the rich taste of cream and the stimulation of spicy taste, which makes people intoxicated and can't stop.

In addition, Samyang Ramen has other flavors, such as fried sauce and cheese, which are also loved by some people.

#3. Nissin

#►. How about this brand:

Nissin is a well-known Japanese instant noodle brand founded by Momofuku Ando in 1958. It is loved by foodies around the world for its diverse flavors and innovative products. Among them, Nissin Seafood Cup Noodles is a popular product. The outer packaging is made of high-quality heat-insulating material, which is non-slip and not hot. It also comes with a noodle fork, which is clean and hygienic.

#►. What we like about it:

1. Innovation leadership: 

   Nissin is the inventor of instant noodles. The brand has a deep history and technical background. It constantly launches new product forms and flavors to keep the brand fresh and attractive. For example, it is the first to launch cup noodles and bowl noodles that are easy to carry and eat. 

2. Quality and taste: 

   Nissin pays attention to the quality and taste of its products. Its instant noodles usually have good noodles and rich soup, bringing a delicious eating experience. 

3. Rich flavors: 

   Covering a variety of classic and unique flavors, from traditional Japanese pork bones, seafood to international curry, Tom Yum soup, etc., I only need to choose a brand to satisfy the taste preferences of the whole family. 

4. Convenient and fast: 

   It is really easy to prepare and eat Japanese ramen, which meets the needs of modern fast-paced life and can provide a convenient meal in a short time.

#►. What we don't like about it:

1. Some products have a light taste:

   Some netizens said that some products of Nissin instant noodles, such as seafood flavor, have a light taste and do not suit the tastes of most Chinese and Koreans.

2. High price:

   The relatively high price of Nissin instant noodles may discourage some consumers.

3. Noodles are not chewy enough:

   The noodles of Nissin instant noodles are usually soft and lack chewiness, which may make some people who like chewy taste dissatisfied.

#►. These are the best or most popular ramen of Nissin:

Nissin Cup Noodles BIG Seafood Noodles: 

This instant noodle is loved for its rich seafood flavor and large cup design.

Nissin Rawang Beef Stew Flavor Instant Noodles: 

Its rich pork bone soup base and rich ingredients make it popular.

Nissin UFO Flying Saucer Fried Noodles: 

This fried noodle is popular for its unique flying saucer shape and multiple flavor combinations.

#4. Maruchan

#►. How about this brand:

Maruchan is a well-known Japanese instant noodle brand, which belongs to Ajinomoto Group. The brand's instant noodles are very popular in the Japanese market, especially its "Maruchan Itoen" series.

In addition to Japan, Maruchan instant noodles are also sold to other countries and regions, such as the United States, Mexico, etc. In these countries, Maruchan instant noodles are usually loved by people for their unique taste and convenient packaging.

#►. What we like about it:

1. Variety of flavors: 

   Maruchan offers a variety of instant noodles, including classic soy sauce, miso, salt, as well as some unique flavors such as spicy, seafood, curry, etc., which can meet the taste needs of different people. 

2. Convenient and fast: 

   One of the biggest advantages of instant noodles is that they are convenient and fast. Maruchan's products are usually easy to prepare and can be eaten in just a few minutes by adding hot water. They are perfect for busy lifestyles or when you need to quickly solve hunger. 

3. Affordable: 

   Maruchan's instant noodles are usually affordable and are an affordable food choice. This makes it a choice for many people on a limited budget.

#►. What we don't like about it:

1. High sodium content:

   For people with lighter tastes or higher requirements for healthy diets, they may feel that its seasoning is too strong or not natural enough.

#►. These are the best or most popular ramen of Maruchan:

Maruchan Lime Ramen Shrimp Chili Instant Noodles: 

This instant noodle has a 95.6% positive review rate on ebay. Its noodles have a good texture, with a certain elasticity and chewiness, and the unique seasoning has the taste of shrimp and chili, which is suitable for people who like seafood and spicy food.

Maruchan Akai Kitsune Udon: 

This is a Japanese instant noodle with noodles, miso and fried tofu as the main ingredients. It is very delicious with rich miso soup and fried tofu as ingredients. The noodles of this instant noodle are relatively wide and solid, and the soup has a rich flavor, making it a perfect main course for a meal.

Final Verdict: Nongshim vs. Nissin vs. Maruchan vs. Samyang: Which one is best?

My number one choice is Nongshim!

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Korean ramen and Japanese ramen have different tastes, and it is difficult to simply judge which is better. It depends on personal taste preferences.

Korean ramen is usually spicy and has a unique seasoning flavor. The noodles are thick and chewy. The soup is mostly spicy, and it is paired with kimchi, ham, cheese and other ingredients, giving me a strong taste stimulation.

Japanese ramen is rich in variety, such as pork bone ramen with a rich pork bone soup as the base, with a mellow taste; soy sauce ramen has a soy sauce fragrance; miso ramen has a unique miso flavor.

The thickness and taste of the noodles are also varied. The side dishes usually include barbecued pork, soft-boiled eggs, seaweed, etc., focusing on the combination of ingredients and the balance of taste.

I personally prefer Korean instant noodles because I think Japanese instant noodles are not strong enough in flavor, and the noodles are not elastic enough, and they are not even as delicious as Chinese instant noodles.

Among Korean ramen, I usually eat Shin ramen the most, followed by Buldak noodles, because Buldak noodles are too spicy, and I only want to eat it when I want to eat snacks.

The spiciness level of the original shin ramen is 3,400 SHU, so if you like spicy flavors, you will definitely eat a bowl quickly.

If you like bold and spicy flavors, try the signature beef flavor, which is not commonly found in ramen.

It comes in instantly recognizable red shiny packaging and claims it "can make a grown man cry".

Interestingly, the spiciness will clear your sinuses and any bad mood from a hard day at work, while the chewy noodles will perk you up.

The chewiness of the noodles and the richness of the spicy broth – packed with beef, mushrooms, carrots, and peppers – will make you crave another bowl instantly. 

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