Korean noodles, known as guksu (국수) or myeon (면), are a must-try culinary experience. Whether served steaming hot in a rich broth or ice-cold on a sweltering summer day, Korean noodles offer a wide variety of textures, flavors, and traditions worth exploring.
Types of Korean Noodles
Korean noodle dishes generally fall into two main categories: hot soup noodles and cold noodles. Here is what you need to try.
Hot Soup Noodles (Guksu)
Hot soup noodles are incredibly popular year-round. They warm you up during frigid winters and help you relax and sweat out the heat during summer. The broth is typically made from anchovy, kelp, or beef, loaded with vegetables for a healthy, savory base. The noodles are usually wheat-based and range from thin to thick.
Must-Try Hot Noodle Dishes
- Kalguksu (칼국수) — Knife-cut, thick wheat flour noodles served in a hearty seafood or beef broth with plenty of vegetables. This is the perfect comfort food for cold days.
- Janchi Guksu (잔치국수) — Thin wheat noodles in a light, clear broth made from anchovy, kelp, or beef. Traditionally served at birthdays, weddings, and celebrations (janchi means “party”), the long noodles symbolize longevity and a long-lasting marriage. You do not need a special occasion to enjoy them, though—they are delicious any day.
Other delicious hot soup noodles to add to your list include kongguksu (noodles in cold soy milk broth—technically cold but often grouped here) and various regional seafood noodle soups.
Cold Noodles (Naengmyeon & Bibim Noodles)
Cold noodles are typically served with no broth or in a cold, refreshing broth—ideal for hot summer days. The broth often comes with ice, and the noodles are usually thin, made from wheat or buckwheat.
Must-Try Cold Noodle Dishes
- Naengmyeon (냉면) — Thin buckwheat noodles served in one of two styles:
- Mul Naengmyeon: Served in an icy cold broth with cucumber, thin slices of meat, and a hard-boiled egg.
- Bibim Naengmyeon: Tossed in a spicy red pepper paste (gochujang) sauce with minimal broth, topped with the same fresh condiments.
Naengmyeon is especially popular at Korean BBQ restaurants, where it is ordered after grilling meat to cool down from the heat.
- Dongchimi Guksu (동치미국수) — Thin noodles served in dongchimi, a refreshing, non-spicy fermented Korean radish water similar to kimchi. It pairs exceptionally well with grilled galbi (short ribs).
- Jjolmyeon (쫄면) — Chewy, spicy wheat noodles tossed with fresh vegetables like carrots and cabbage, topped with a hard-boiled egg. A popular Korean street food and lunch option.
Why You Should Try Korean Noodles
Korean noodles stand out for several reasons:
- Nutritious and balanced: Many dishes are packed with vegetables, lean proteins, and mineral-rich broths.
- Seasonal versatility: There is a Korean noodle dish for every season and every craving.
- Quality-focused: Unlike stir-fried or heavily sauced noodle dishes, Korean noodles emphasize high-quality broth and perfectly chewy noodles.
- Perfect with banchan: Korean side dishes (banchan) complement the noodles and elevate the entire dining experience.
Final Thoughts
From the comforting warmth of kalguksu to the icy refreshment of naengmyeon, Korean noodles offer something for everyone. Whether you are dining at a Korean BBQ joint or a street food stall, exploring the world of guksu is one of the best ways to experience Korean cuisine.
