We been to many beautiful libraries around the world, but none as captivating as the Ramyun (or Ramen) Library in Seoul. Okay, maybe I’m being a bit dramatic, but if you love ramen the way we do it is quite a sight to behold.
As one might expect, this library has gained the attention of many foreigners and tourists alike. We’ve only been there twice, but every time we’ve gone we have had to help visitors navigate their way through the process. There are plenty of signs and instructions in different languages to help you along the way, but it can be a bit overwhelming.
So, let’s get started.
How to Use the Ramen Library
1. CHOOSE YOUR RAMEN
Obviously the first thing you’re going to want to do is make your ramen selection. The Ramyun Library boasts a selection of 225 different types of ramen, not just from Korea, but from Japan, Indonesia and Vietnam as well. Michael almost always chooses a different ramen, but I’m always partial to Jin Ramen or Sesame Ramen (참깨라면).
**Pro Tip: Table space is limited, so you definitely want grab yourself a table before you get started. In Korea it’s pretty common for people to “reserve” a table by leaving their phone, purse, etc. on the table while they order.
2. PICK YOUR SIDES & ADD-INS
In the refrigerated section you can find things to add to your ramen like individual packages of green onion, bean sprouts and jalapeños, cheese, sausages and of course raw eggs. There are both soft boiled and hard boiled eggs if you want to go that route, but check the packaging carefully and make sure you know exactly what you’re getting.
3. DRINK SELECTION
If you want to get a drink, or pretty much anything else, now’s the time to do it. I love a good banana milk with my ramen, not because it’s spicy, but because I’m a child at heart and that’s just how I roll
4. PAY
Once you’ve picked out everything you want, head over to the cash register to pay. The cashier will ask if you are taking the ramen to go or if you’re eating-in. Once you pay, they will give you the bowl to cook your ramen in. Napkins and chopsticks can be found at the individual ramen tables.
5. PREP YOUR RAMEN
Now you can head back to one of the super cute ramen cup tables and prep your bowl. You’re going to want to put in your flavor packets along with any veggies or additional add-ins. DO NOT add in the egg, that will come later.
6. COOKING STATION
Next you can head to the cooking station. To get started, be sure to scan the barcode on the side of your bowl. Then set it down, press start and the machine will do the rest. Do not touch or remove the bowl while it’s cooking, but you can give the ramen an occasional stir with your chopsticks if you really want to.
**Pro Tip: If you’re adding in a soft boiled egg, wait until 1 minute 30 seconds for the best results. Adding it in too early will result in a burnt bowl which’ll ruin your meal.
7. ENJOY
Once the ramen is done cooking and the machine turns off, you can take it back to your table. But be careful because it’s super hot! And now you can enjoy the fruits of your labor. I don’t know what it is, but somehow eating ramen like this just always tastes better!
8. CLEAN UP
Once you’re done, be sure to clean up after yourself for the next person. Recycling is very important in Korea, so be sure to put your garbage in the appropriate bin. There is also a specific bin for food garbage, but be carful not to throw eggshells in it. Eggshells go in the regular garbage not the food garbage.
And that’s it! Hope you found this helpful for your next Ramyun Library visit. If you have any questions or comments, be sure to leave them down for us below. And for more helpful tips a itinerary ideas be sure to also follow us on TikTok and Instagram.
How Much does the Ramyun Library Cost?
It depends entirely on what kind of ramen you get along with how many toppings or sides you get in it. A basic ramen will run you about 2,000 KRW with an additional 900 KRW for the paper bowl to cook in.
We recommend budgeting about 5,000 KRW per person for ramen, toppings, and drinks. If you want to go all out or decide on a pricer ramen, it’ll be closer to 10,000 KRW for a “luxury” experience.
Where is the Ramyun Library?
The Ramyun Library is actually a CU convenience store located in the Hongdae area. It’s relatively easy to find, but because it’s not located very close to any subway stations or bus stops, expect at least a 10-minute walk to get here.
- Address:
- Seoul Mapo-gu Jandari-ro 25 (Google Maps)
- 서울 마포구 잔다리로 25 (Naver Map)
- Hours:
- Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
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