SOUTH KOREA | Kimchi Ramyun, launched by Daesang's leading Korean food brand, Ofood, has surpassed a million cumulative sales in Canada, carving out a niche by leveraging Korea's heritage as the birthplace of Kimchi.
Since its launch in the Canadian market in October last year, 'Real Kimchi Ramyun Noodle Soup' has quickly gained traction, receiving strong positive responses from local consumers.
Unlike conventional ramyun products that rely on dried flakes, Ofood Kimchi Ramyun uses real Kimchi from Korea's top Kimchi brand, Jongga, delivering the authentic taste of traditional Korean Kimchi stew. This differentiated approach has contributed to its rapid market growth.
Ofood Kimchi Ramyun is available in two varieties: 'Real Kimchi Ramyun Noodle Soup,' featuring a spicy soup base, and 'Real Fiery Kimchi Stir-fried Ramyun,' made with gochujang. Both products use fresh Kimchi instead of dried flakes, offering a crisp texture and deep fermented flavour.
While balancing sourness and aroma, the products retain the signature spiciness of Korean ramyun, making them appealing to a wide range of consumers.
Active marketing efforts targeting local Gen Z consumers also contributed to the strong performance. Ofood enhanced brand awareness through outdoor advertising in major Canadian cities and digital campaigns on social media platforms such as Instagram and TikTok.
In addition, large-scale sampling events held around major universities, including the University of Toronto, helped expand engagement with younger consumers familiar with Korean culture and bold flavours, leading to actual purchases.
Following a strong sales performance, distribution expansion is also accelerating. In addition to existing retail channels such as Costco and Loblaws, Ofood Kimchi Ramyun is now available at FreshCo, where it is currently sold in approximately 70 stores across Canada, with plans to expand distribution to more than 150 locations nationwide in the second half of the year.
"Ofood Kimchi Ramyun is rapidly gaining traction in the Canadian market as a product that allows consumers to enjoy the authentic taste of Korean Kimchi," said Seungin Jung, Head of Global Discovery BO at Daesang.
"We will continue to strengthen the presence of K-food in North America through marketing tailored to local consumer lifestyles and expanded distribution channels."
Meanwhile, Ofood Kimchi Ramyun is also available through major online and offline channels in the United States, including Costco, Kroger, and Amazon, as Daesang continues to expand its global brand activities across the North American market.
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