If you’ve been scrolling through social media while planning your trip to Korea, chances are you’ve seen the viral CU Ramen Libraries. These unique convenience stores are such a fun stop, and even though you don’t need to “return” anything – the ramen library experience lets you customize and cook your own instant ramen after choosing from dozens of different noodle brands and toppings, making it a super fun and affordable experience while in Seoul. There’s now quite a few different Ramen Libraries throughout Korea, but I recommend visiting the CU Ramen Library in Hongdae – it’s easy to get to, has English instructions, and has one of the larger selections of ramen and various toppings, making it a great stop for first-time Ramen Library visitors.

My Essential Korea Travel Resources :

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🚙 Car rentals, although not common in Korea, are best through Discover Cars – just make sure to have a copy of your international driver’s permit with you!

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📶 To keep cell phone service, I use Airalo’s easy to purchase eSIM’s (no installation required).

📸 For fun things to do, Klook specializes on tours in Asia, otherwise Viator also does the trick.

🦋 Just in case, Safetywing is the insurance I always use when visiting a new country.

🧳 Lastly, my essential packing list when visiting Korea.

How to Get to the CU Ramen Library in Hongdae

The actual name of this exact Ramen Library and CU Location (which is a very popular convenience store in Korea) is the “CU Hongik Univ. Sangsang Branch” on NAVER, and is located right outside the busy Hongdae pedestrian street. If you type it into NAVER Maps or Kakao Maps it should bring you right there through the app. This area of Seoul is pretty international, so if you get lost you should be able to ask some people nearby to help you.

If you’re using the Seoul subway system, the closest subway station to the Ramen Library is “Hapjeong Station” on the Green Line 2 or Red Line 6. You’ll want to exit through Exit 3 and then walk about a 10 minutes from there. Since this CU is open 24/7/365, there isn’t really a time to go or to avoid. I visited in the middle of the day, and there were only a few other people there.

Personally, I think it’s worth adding to your Seoul itinerary, especially if it’s your first trip to Korea. I’ll be honest the ramen is actually the same ramen you can buy everywhere else, but the experience of choosing your own flavor from the wall of options, adding whatever toppings you like, and eating at a giant instant ramen cup all makes for a super unique experience.

My Must-Do Tours in Seoul :

->Alpaca World & Nami Island Full Day Tour

->DMZ & Suspension Bridge Day Trip

How the CU Ramen Library Works

Since the Ramen Library is open literally every day 24/7, there isn’t really a “best” time to go. However, I’d recommend timing your visit for when you’re feeling hungriest. When you get inside, you’ll see the Ramen Library area towards the front of the store right away since conveniently located right behind the giant windows.

Before you start making your ramen, you’ll need to gather all the ingredients and toppings you want, and of course the type of ramen you want to cook. On the left side of the store you’ll find a refrigerated section that has all the toppings – from meat and seafood to vegetables and eggs, the possibilities are pretty endless. On the right side you’ll find an entire wall of all different kinds of ramen, organized from the least spiciest to the most spiciest. Once you have everything you want to add to your bowl, you can head to the checkout and pay for everything, where you’ll then be given the bowl to cook your ramen in.

You’ll want to follow the directions for whichever kind of ramen you chose to make, usually instructions are on the packaging. If you need help you can always ask the worker, they’re usually pretty friendly and helpful. In the middle of the store you’ll find the miniature stovetops, all you need to do is scan the barcode on the side of your bowl and place your noodles in the bowl on the stovetop. Once the machine scans your bowl it’ll fill it up with the necessary amount of water and boil it on a timer. After it’s done, you can add all the toppings you purchased and create your ramen masterpiece!

You’ll want to note that most tables in the ramen library are standing space only, with tables shaped like giant instant ramen cups. There are a few seats lining the window if you really need a spot to sit, otherwise I would expect to stand. After you enjoy your meal, you can clean everything up and head on your way! The total cost depends on which ramen and how many toppings you decide to add, but generally speaking I’d expect to spend somewhere between ₩5,000–₩20,000 for a full meal.

Watch My Ramen Library Visit Here!

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Other Blog Posts You Might Be Interested In :

-> Best Apps to Download Before Korea

-> Getting Around in Korea (Subway System)

-> Best Korean Street Foods to Try

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