Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.

This viral ramen wants to spice up Valentine’s Day

Video Player Placeholder
Ramen, EXPLAINED
  • Samyang Buldak, the Korean ramen brand, has launched limited-edition Valentine's Day packaging in the U.S. featuring the tagline “Hotter Than My Ex.”
  • The special packaging is available for Buldak's Big Bowl Original instant ramen and can be purchased via TikTok Shop, HMart and Walmart throughout February.
  • Samyang America CEO Youngsik Shin stated the campaign is about confidence, celebrating Valentine's Day with more spice and less sweetness, reflecting Buldak's bold personality.
  • Buldak ramen has gained significant popularity on social media, particularly through spicy ramen challenges, contributing to a substantial increase in Samyang's company value.
  • The rise in ramen's popularity in the U.S. is attributed to growing interest in Korean pop culture, the affordability of ramen amidst rising grocery prices and its adaptability as a meal.
In full

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in