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Korea Food Guide · Guide 23

Naengmyeon

Naengmyeon is Korea's beloved cold noodle dish — chewy buckwheat noodles served in an icy, savory broth.

Naengmyeon — ASK KOREA infographic
01 — Overview

Quick Summary

Naengmyeon is Korea's beloved cold noodle dish — chewy buckwheat noodles served in an icy, savory broth.

Key takeaways

  • Naengmyeon (냉면) means “cold noodles.”
  • Perfect for hot summer days and after Korean BBQ.
  • Mul naengmyeon is in broth; bibim naengmyeon is in spicy sauce.
  • Local restaurants charge about ₩8,000–₩12,000.
02 — Full Guide

The Complete Guide

What Is Naengmyeon?

Naengmyeon (냉면) means “cold noodles.” It is a popular Korean dish made with chewy noodles, served in an icy, refreshing broth and topped with various ingredients.

  • Cold, refreshing and satisfying
  • Chewy texture and light flavor
  • Perfect for hot summer days
  • A must-try Korean dish

Main Ingredients

The combination of chewy noodles and icy broth creates a uniquely refreshing taste.

  • Buckwheat noodles
  • Beef broth
  • Sliced beef
  • Cucumber
  • Cucumber kimchi
  • Pear
  • Mustard
  • Vinegar
  • Boiled egg

How to Enjoy Naengmyeon

Add a bit of kimchi or radish kimchi on the side for extra flavor.

  • Mix the mustard and vinegar into the broth to your taste.
  • Add the noodles and toppings to the icy broth.
  • Mix well before eating.
  • Enjoy the cool, refreshing taste.

Types of Naengmyeon

  • Mul Naengmyeon (물냉면) — cold noodles in icy beef broth.
  • Bibim Naengmyeon (버범냉면) — spicy, sweet and tangy sauce mixed noodles.
  • Hamheung Naengmyeon (함흠냉면) — chewy noodles with spicy sauce, no broth.
  • Hoeng Naengmyeon (회냉면) — noodles topped with fresh raw fish.

Good With & Best Time to Enjoy

  • Mandu (dumplings) — a perfect side dish
  • Bossam (boiled pork) — a great combination
  • Korean BBQ — a classic match
  • Radish kimchi — adds crunch and spice
  • Best in summer, after exercise, or when you want something light

Where to Try Naengmyeon

  • Pyeongyang naengmyeon restaurants — authentic Pyeongyang-style naengmyeon.
  • Famous local restaurants — long-standing local favorites.
  • Traditional markets — affordable and delicious naengmyeon.
  • Many restaurants across Korea — easy to find your favorite spot.

Average Price (KRW)

Prices may vary by location and restaurant.

  • Local restaurants: ₩8,000 – ₩12,000
  • Famous restaurants: ₩13,000 – ₩18,000
  • Premium restaurants: ₩18,000 – ₩25,000

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrition may vary depending on ingredients and portion size.

  • Calories: 430 kcal
  • Protein: 15 g
  • Carbohydrates: 70 g
  • Fat: 7 g
  • Sodium: 1,200 mg

Health Benefits & Did You Know?

  • Low in fat and refreshing
  • Good for digestion
  • Provides energy and helps cool down the body
  • Naengmyeon became popular in Korea during the Joseon Dynasty.
  • Pyeongyang naengmyeon is listed as part of Korea's Intangible Cultural Heritage, and each region has its own style.
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