Gumi Ramen Festival https://zdnet.co.kr/view/?no=20241101172824 Despite rainy weather, the 2024 Gumi Ramen Festival drew large crowds to its unique celebration of ramen culture. Known as the "World's Longest Ramen Restaurant," the festival transformed a 475-meter stretch near Gumi Station into a ramen haven, inviting visitors to explore unique ramen varieties and enjoy a festive atmosphere. https://www.news1.kr/industry/distribution/5587521 The Gumi Ramen Festival, now in its third year, ran from November 1 to 3. Local vendors showcased innovative ramen dishes, all priced under 9,000 won (around $7), ensuring accessibility for everyone. This year’s event was organized by the city of Gumi to boost the local economy and support small business owners. Gumi-based restaurant operators took part, with most revenue from sales going directly to the vendors. https://www.news1.kr/industry/distribution/5587521 Local restaurant owners expressed enthusiasm about the event, which gave them the chance to engage directly with visitors. For example, the team behind the "U-Samgyeop Mi-Gorang Ramen" booth aimed to sell 1,500 bowls over the three days. Popular Gumi bistro “Oli” also returned for a second year, offering its specialty “Cup Ramen Fried Rice” at a special festival price. https://www.news1.kr/industry/distribution/5587521 In addition to the ramen stalls, the festival featured various booths and interactive areas showcasing diverse aspects of K-ramen culture. One of the main attractions was the “Gatland” booth, where fresh ramen from the local Nongshim factory was sold. Visitors lined up to try the newly produced ramen, while those looking to stock up could take advantage of a convenient shipping service. https://zdnet.co.kr/view/?no=20241101172824 The festival also attracted social media influencers Jonathan and Patricia, who hosted a ramen-themed talk show, much to the delight of fans. Additionally, the "Ramen Workshop" offered visitors the opportunity to create their own customized ramen, proving to be so popular that long queues formed. Other areas, such as the Ramen Exhibition Hall, Ramen Stage, and "Hooroorook Lounge," were designed to provide a full experience of K-ramen culture. https://biz.chosun.com/distribution/food/2024/11/02/ATTGB6QIJFH55BU2D3QK3ZKUHY/?utm_source=naver&utm_medium=original&utm_campaign=biz First-time attendee Kim Seong-soo, 37, was pleasantly surprised by the crowd despite the rain. “I thought it would be less crowded because of the rain and weekday timing, but it’s amazing to see so many people here,” he said, while waiting in line at the Gatland booth to try fresh ramen. “I’m curious to see how fresh ramen compares to store-bought noodles.” https://biz.chosun.com/distribution/food/2024/11/02/ATTGB6QIJFH55BU2D3QK3ZKUHY/?utm_source=naver&utm_medium=original&utm_campaign=biz Lee Hee-jin, 48, who visited with family, shared her positive experience, commenting, “It’s not just about eating ramen; there are so many activities for families to enjoy together. And with fair prices, it’s a great event to fully experience without worrying about overspending. It would be wonderful if people start associating Gumi with this unique ramen festival as a nationwide event.” https://view.asiae.co.kr/article/2024110117482505984 Nongshim has been a key supporter of the festival, supplying fresh ramen straight from its Gumi factory as part of its commitment to local community growth and economic revitalization. The company aims to revitalize the aging downtown area of Gumi, which faces challenges due to a declining population. https://view.asiae.co.kr/article/2024110117482505984 Nongshim’s representative explained, “The Gumi Ramen Festival stands as a model of cooperation between local government and corporations, fostering a new cultural event for people nationwide to enjoy. We’re proud to actively participate in Gumi’s signature festival, strengthening connections with consumers while contributing to local economic growth.” With its innovative concept, strong community ties, and broad appeal, the Gumi Ramen Festival looks poised to become one of Korea's most memorable food festivals. #GumiRamenFestival #구미라면축제 #KoreanFood #RamenLovers #라면축제 #KFood #구미맛집 #RamenFestival #Foodie #라면로드 #NoodleCulture #맛집탐방 #KoreaTravel #라면마니아 #VisitGumi #한국여행 #LongestRamenRestaurant #라면거리 #Foodstagram #이색라면 #구미여행 #FestivalVibes #라면덕후 #LocalEats #KoreaFestival #농심라면 #RamenLife #가족나들이 #GumiTrip #RamenCulture All rights reserved Stay14 Bespoke