What began with catchy K-pop tracks and binge-worthy late-night K-dramas has now evolved into a larger cultural phenomenon. Interestingly, India’s growing fascination with Korean culture has firmly made its way into the kitchen. Capturing this massive flavour wave, South Korean food icon Nongshim Co. Ltd. officially launched its latest premium offering, Shin Ramyun Kimchi Stir Fry, at a vibrant launch event hosted at The Westin Hotel, Gurugram.
The launch marks a major milestone for Nongshim as it doubles down on the Indian market, where food is no longer just about convenience but always about the experience. This move comes at a defining moment for the food giant. With South Korea’s domestic instant noodle market that includes snacks, beverages, bottled water, and ready-to-eat food products that has now reached maturity, leading brands are looking well beyond their borders for future growth. Nongshim exports its products to more than 100 countries worldwide.
Crafted under the brand’s global philosophy of bringing “Spicy Happiness in Noodles,” the new Kimchi Stir Fry marries the iconic, fiery kick of classic Shin Ramyun with the rich, tangy, and savoury crunch of stir-fried kimchi. The flavour profile is crafted for India’s Gen Z and millennial food enthusiasts, who are increasingly drawn to bold, sweet-spicy, and texture-rich global street-food experiences.
This Indian launch aligns perfectly with Nongshim’s newly unveiled “Global Agility & Growth” business vision, which positions international expansion as the company’s ultimate strategic priority. Backed by solid numbers, Nongshim recently reported an annual global turnover of approximately KRW 3.5 trillion i.e. around USD 2.5 billion and has set a bold target to push annual revenues to KRW 7.3 trillion by 2030 through aggressive international scaling.
Today, Nongshim products are exported to more than 100 countries worldwide, with its flagship brand, Shin Ramyun, keeping fans happy in over 200 countries and regions globally. India’s own instant noodle market, now roaring past an estimated USD 2.1 billion, is rapidly evolving since today’s consumers are looking for authentic global flavours.
Speaking on the launch, Jo Yong-chul, President & CEO, Nongshim Co. Ltd., said, “India is one of the most exciting markets for Nongshim globally, driven by growing consumer interest in Korean food and evolving consumption patterns. Through the launch of Shin Ramyun Kimchi Stir Fry and our availability on Blinkit, we aim to make authentic Korean flavours more accessible to Indian consumers while strengthening our long-term presence in the country. China may be the biggest market right now, but in terms of market share growth, India is poised to become the No. 1 market within the next five years,” he added.
As South Korean food majors pivot toward high-growth consumer hubs, India has emerged as a frontline market for building this lasting global footprint. Instead of searching supermarket shelves, younger generations are discovering these trends through instant delivery. Recognising this, Nongshim and its Indian distribution partner, Rama Vision Limited, are making quick commerce the heart of their roll out. The new Kimchi Stir Fry is making its debut right where the action is on quick-delivery platforms like Blinkit, alongside Nongshim’s popular portfolio of Ramen and snacks.
Sharing insights on consumer trends and brand positioning, Arhant Jain, Director – Marketing, Rama Vision Limited said, “Indian consumers today are highly influenced by global food trends and digital culture, especially among younger audiences. Shin Ramyun Kimchi Stir Fry offers a distinctive Korean food experience that combines authenticity, flavour, and convenience—elements that strongly resonate with today’s evolving consumer preferences.”
