Gumi Hosts Ramen Festival with Unique Themes and Limited-Edition Products
The city of Gumi in North Gyeongsang Province is set to host its annual “Ramen Festival” from July 7 to 9. Known as the production hub for 75% of all Shin Ramyun in South Korea, Gumi has become a key player in the country’s ramen culture. This year’s festival theme, “Gumi is the Original,” highlights the city’s role as the birthplace of one of the most iconic instant noodle brands.
Unlike other cities that also host ramen festivals, Gumi stands out for being the first and largest-scale event of its kind in the country. The festival was launched in 2022, inspired by the fact that Nongshim’s factory in the Gumi 1st Industrial Complex produces 75% of Shin Ramyun nationwide. This will be the fourth edition of the event, showcasing the growing popularity of the festival over the years.
A New Theme: KPop Demon Hunters
This year’s festival features a special space themed around the globally popular Netflix animated filmKPop Demon Hunters. Visitors can participate in the “KPop Demon Hunters Noodle Challenge,” where they mimic the film’s protagonists by slurping cup ramen in one go. The challenge adds an interactive and fun element to the festival, drawing in fans of both the film and the noodles.
In addition to the challenge, a limited-edition Shin Ramyun package featuring the film’s main characters will be available. A total of 120,000 units of this special packaging will be sold, making it a must-have for collectors and fans alike.
A Variety of Ramen Dishes
At the festival, visitors can enjoy a wide range of unique ramen dishes at the dedicated ramen restaurant. Some of the standout options include “Hanwoo Buldak Kimchi Ramen” and “Clam Ramen.” These dishes showcase the versatility of ramen and the creativity of local chefs.
To ensure a fair experience for all visitors, prices are capped at 9,000 Korean won per bowl. This move helps prevent any disputes related to overcharging and ensures that everyone can enjoy the festival without financial concerns.
Growing Popularity and Community Engagement
The festival has seen a significant increase in attendance since its inception. In the first year (2022), around 10,000 people attended, but last year’s event saw a surge to 170,000 visitors—nearly half of Gumi’s population of 400,000—within just three days. This rapid growth reflects the appeal of the festival and the city’s efforts to promote its cultural identity.
Mayor Kim Jang-ho emphasized the importance of maintaining high standards for the event. He stated, “We will ensure thorough management of the festival so visitors can enjoy Gumi’s autumn with warm ramen.” His comments highlight the city’s commitment to providing a memorable experience for all attendees.
Conclusion
The Gumi Ramen Festival continues to grow in popularity, attracting both locals and tourists. With its unique themes, limited-edition products, and a variety of ramen dishes, the festival offers something for everyone. As Gumi continues to celebrate its role in the world of ramen, the event serves as a testament to the city’s cultural significance and its ability to bring people together through food.