And speaking of…Korean ramen brands are having a global pop culture moment.In 2025, Korean food exports hit a record $14B, with ramen exports alone jumping 22%, making it the first single food category to cross $1B overseas. The growth is being attributed to Korean pop culture being everywhere right now, from the spicy Buldak ramen challenges on TikTok and K-drama characters bonding over late-night noodle bowls to KPop Demon Hunters’ HUNTR/X downing bowls before battle. Noodle makers are leaning in by tapping K-pop stars as ambassadors, like Ottogi who signed BTS member Jin to rep his own Jin Ramen. YPulse data shows young consumers are primed for the international snack appeal: 68% of 13-39-year-olds are interested in snacks from other countries. (CNBC)
👀 Read more from YPulse: Young People of Color Are Fueling Viral Food Trends
