ONLINEKOREANEWS.COM

Tag: Korea News

  • Nationwide Rain and Snow Forecasted for Feb 10: Lunar New Year Weather Update

    Rain or snow is expected nationwide starting on the 10th, and no severe cold is anticipated through the Lunar New Year holiday (February 15–18).

    According to the Korea Meteorological Administration, morning temperatures in Seoul dropped to -10.1°C on the 9th, with strong cold around -10°C recorded nationwide. However, temperatures are expected to rise significantly above freezing in the afternoon, returning to average levels.

    In Seoul, the midday high is expected to reach 5°C, a sharp rise of about 15 degrees from the morning. Consequently, all cold wave warnings that had been issued across the country were lifted as of that morning.

    Due to a low-pressure trough, nationwide rain and snow are forecast starting on the 10th. Precipitation will begin in Incheon, northern Gyeonggi, Gangwon, Chungcheong, and southern regions in the morning, spreading to most of the country in the afternoon, and is expected to mostly subside by the morning of the 11th.

    Snow accumulation of 1–5 cm is expected in colder regions such as northern Gyeonggi, Gangwon, and North Chungcheong, while the mountainous areas of Jeju, which have already seen significant snowfall, are forecast to receive another 2–7 cm. Light rain of less than 5 mm is expected in Seoul and other areas.

    [ONLINE-KOREA：A Letter from Korea]

    February 4 marked “Ipchun,” the onset of spring, yet the past weekend was so bitterly cold that it was painful to stay outdoors. However, seeing the forecast suggests that winter is finally coming to an end, which also brings a touch of bittersweetness.

    Please note that the period from February 15 to February 18, 2026, is Korea’s biggest traditional holiday, Seollal (Lunar New Year).

    If you are planning to visit Korea during this time, please be prepared for extreme congestion on trains, buses, and highways as locals return to their hometowns. We strongly recommend booking your transportation tickets in advance, especially for travel between cities.

    Lotte Department Store to Close All Locations Feb 16–17

    Furthermore, while major palaces and large shopping malls generally remain open, some may close on the day of Seollal itself, so it is necessary to verify in advance. In particular, local restaurants and small shops often close for several days; we advise checking their operating status before your visit.

    On a final note, ONLINE-KOREA will not be handling regular operations during the holiday, but we will remain available for consultations and inquiries. Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions.

  • Nongshim’s Shin Ramyun Becomes a K-Food Icon on ABC’s “Jimmy Kimmel Live!”

    Nongshim’s flagship product, Shin Ramyun, was featured on the popular ABC late-night talk show “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” on January 26, 2026, garnering significant attention across the United States.

    During the broadcast, regular cast member Guillermo Rodriguez appeared in a humorous comedy skit where he was depicted relieving daily fatigue with the “deliciously spicy taste” of Shin Ramyun. By naturally integrating the product into the narrative rather than using a traditional advertisement, the segment resonated with local viewers and highlighted the brand’s growing familiarity in the American market.

    Immediately following the broadcast, enthusiastic comments from local fans began flooding social media platforms like YouTube and TikTok. Many viewers expressed a sudden craving for the spicy noodles, while others specifically mentioned their interest in “Shin Ramyun Toomba”, a creamy fusion recipe that has recently become a viral sensation. This reaction underscores the product’s evolution from a niche ethnic food to a mainstream comfort meal enjoyed by a diverse audience of all ages.

    Industry experts view this prime-time exposure as a symbolic milestone, indicating that Shin Ramyun has deeply penetrated American pop culture. This success is the culmination of Nongshim’s aggressive local marketing efforts, which have included digital collaborations with the animated film K-Pop Demon Hunters, high-impact outdoor advertisements in New York’s Times Square, and various localized offline campaigns.

    A representative from Nongshim emphasized that Shin Ramyun has evolved to become a definitive icon of K-food in the United States. The company plans to further solidify its brand presence through various global content collaborations and specialized product launches in the future.

    [ONLINE-KOREA: A Letter from Korea]

    What do you use to eat your ramyun?

    Perhaps it’s because I’m Korean, but I don’t feel quite right unless I’m using chopsticks. Specifically, metal ones.✨

    Some say Korean metal chopsticks are heavier and flatter than those from other cultures, making them a bit difficult to handle. However, having used them since childhood, they feel the most natural to me. Only with these metal chopsticks do I truly feel like I’m enjoying a proper bowl of ramyun😓

    Lately, since my current set has grown old, I’ve been looking to buy a new pair. Rather than a mass-produced set from a supermarket, I’m searching for something crafted by an artisan🥢

    Don’t you think that eating with a pair of artisan-made chopsticks could turn even simple instant ramyun into an extraordinary meal?Once I find the perfect set that meets my standards, I’ll be the first to share it with you😁

    Experience the depth of Korean food culture, starting from your fingertips.🍜

  • KOREAN NEWS | 30,000 Gather in Seoul to Welcome the New Year Despite -10°C Chills❄️

    As the “Bosingak Bell” tolled to announce the “Year of the Red Horse,” January 1, 2026, officially began.

    Despite the freezing temperatures of -10°C in Seoul at midnight, approximately 30,000 citizens gathered in front of the Bosingak Pavilion in Jongno to welcome the new year.

    This year’s bell-ringing ceremony was especially meaningful, featuring 11 civilian representatives—recognized as the unsung heroes of society—including Kim Gwi-sun, a counselor at a suicide prevention lifeline.

    Simultaneously, Gwanghwamun Square hosted the “Stage of Light,” a collaborative effort between the public and private sectors. A grand countdown show on massive LED screens and vibrant media facades illuminating the building exteriors transformed the night of Seoul into a work of art, delivering profound emotion and hopeful wishes for the new year to the citizens.

    💡ONLINE-KOREA Insight

    Happy New Year 2026!

    We wish you a healthy and prosperous year ahead, and may all your endeavors bear fruitful results.